Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, 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 signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break down over time just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If they don't, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
If you can purchase a replacement key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. These are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. check over here could compromise the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob for a time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require specialized programming. This is only possible by a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and may not offer the best deal. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a variety of automobiles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most common car key fob model 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 types of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However you can save money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you might have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob to complete the procedure. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to a smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.