Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer, 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 need to do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break when they age.
If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are 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. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob within a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks or turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only available through a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the work.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If key replacement car have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships might charge more than other places, and they might not offer the best deal. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without the need for the traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. These are usually found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you own a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
Smart keys are found in all modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending an 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 to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you might be able to purchase the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. car key replacement near me is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get 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 component on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
For those with German cars, for example, that have 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 because these fobs typically use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.