Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside of them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade, you might be in a position to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door left open could affect how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are usually less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They can be found at an auto parts store or dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that 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 locating the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to find a professional to replace the item. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially 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 most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. cost of replacement car keys to this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be quite difficult, however, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key needs replacement.
For those who own German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the equipment necessary to do so.