Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer 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 ceases to work the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset or a locksmith if needed.
If you can purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or require a new one you may be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, since even one door left open could influence how the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your location to perform the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a large number of 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 common type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
If you own 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's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire a professional to replace the item. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. car keys replacement They function by sending an unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less money than you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' guides or online. These steps can be tricky and you may need another key fob to complete the process. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.