Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries that will work with your car. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with the tendency 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 have trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or need a new one, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might 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 procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specific programming. This is only available through a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. get replacement key for car might even be able to visit you to complete the work.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other places, and they might not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths 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 lets you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you will need to engage an expert to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less than what the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may need another key fob in order to complete the procedure. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key that you can make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only company with the tools needed to do so.