Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and start your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard 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 isn't working, the first thing to do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
car replacement key have tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a convenient feature, it could 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 embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip could be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.
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 alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. If you lose yours or require a new one you might be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. They are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob in a time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been 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 use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is distinct and requires special programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to do the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without having to use a traditional metal key. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger 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 useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. cost of a car key replacement can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to its smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" which is similar to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use an exclusive 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.