Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge depending on the make of your car.
However, Consumer Reports reveals 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 devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other device that spends most of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they age.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. auto key replacement is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that must be done by a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without using a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of vehicles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you might be able to purchase a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, but this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" that is similar to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason is that these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the necessary equipment to do this.