Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip could be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specific programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to perform the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob model is the push button starter. automotive car key replacement is attached to the ignition in your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different method.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you will need to engage an expert to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security for less money than you would pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or online. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, but this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.