Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge according to the model of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob isn't working is to change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out a coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If they don't, you can find them at many 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. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature but can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with it's possible to do the programming yourself. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If auto replacement key has a different type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that is only done by a dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the work.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also check replacement car keys -car warranty or 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 might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. replacement car key are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that customers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes a smart feature like an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you may be able to purchase a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or online. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even complete it all. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional. However, this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
Those with German automobiles, for instance, that have a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealer. The reason is that these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company with the tools needed to do so.