Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing Info requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take when your key fob is not working is to change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break when they age.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock your car via the internet. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to do the work.
Ask auto car key replacement about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to find an expert to replace the item. It may not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps are quite difficult, however, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
automotive car key replacement for German cars with a "flip" that is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.