Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing you should do is change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any device that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break when they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues with your car, contact the 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 you can buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the car via the internet. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors since even one door left open can influence how the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require specialized programming. This can only be done by a dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the work.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to visit a dealership to have them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. automotive car key replacement 's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
If you own an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less money than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require an additional key fob to complete the process. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob might require programming by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
For those who have German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the tools needed to do this.