Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing to do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break into pieces over time, just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be dangerous for people who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket 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 the vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you might be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob for the same time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that must be performed by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to your location to perform the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. 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 lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If vehicle key replacement have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and they may not offer the best deal. There are several other options for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without having to use the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on many automobiles. They are a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Smart keys are found in all modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option to buy a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's guides or online. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob in order to complete the process. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, but this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.