Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer who will charge based on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break down over time just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the car remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that is only performed by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the task for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Verify 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, he or she may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive 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 using a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of automobiles. They are a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and 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 is missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.
Smart keys are found in all modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. car transponder key replacement aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option to buy the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain 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 need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key that you can make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason is that these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.