Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer and the cost is according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob isn't working is to replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are 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 want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature but can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip could be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close key replacement car as 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 its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This can only be done through an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due 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 make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s, and many 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 take it.
The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. These are usually located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for 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. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and are able to program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might require programming by a professional, however this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do this.