Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing to do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time as does any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside of them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.
If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock your car from a distance. If you lose yours or need a new one you may be able to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got fresh batteries. These are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door left open could affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to complete the work at a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able to your home to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal key. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or a remote start button.
car key replacement are used in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
auto key replacement who own German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife, could only find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.