Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.
If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the car via the internet. If you lose yours or need an upgrade, you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. These are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you wish to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that must be performed by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your location to perform the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper 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. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They're a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. car key replacements are the most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them at less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is hit. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be difficult and you may require another key fob to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys you can purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.
For those who own German automobiles, for instance one, with a "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company with the equipment necessary to do so.