Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on automotive car key replacement at which you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working 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 they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having trouble, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an affordable price, you may be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, because even a door left open can influence how the fob functions.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that is only performed by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have 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 make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and may not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without the need for the traditional metal key. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on many automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay for anything 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 correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. automotive key replacement can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but 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 usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option to buy a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob to complete the process. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
For those who own German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason is that 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 manufacturer with the equipment necessary to do so.