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 a visit to the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. They emit a 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 in time as does any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Others use 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 determine if the chip can be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, as even one door left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible at an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. page are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay anything to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you own an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than you would pay if you 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.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, but this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.