Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge depending on the make of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other device that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell batteries for keys that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature but can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call 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 a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
experienced are equipped with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door left open can impact how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need special programming. This is only available by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the task for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able to come to your home to complete the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer a warranty on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. funny post are typically found at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you may have the option of purchasing the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's guides or online. The steps aren't easy and you may need a second key fob to complete the process. For that reason, 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 metal key, you can get a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as 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 replacing.
For those who own German automobiles, for instance one, with a "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.