Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge depending on the make of your car.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device 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 replacement key fob batteries that 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 which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
If you're able to buy an extra key fob for a price 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. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, since even one door left open can affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your home to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places, and they might not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a variety of vehicles. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. auto car key replacement are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle 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 vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as cheap as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
Based on the model and year, you could have the option of purchasing a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, however this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacement.
Those with German cars, for example one, with a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. 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 generally the only company that has the tools needed to do this.