Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break in time as does any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are 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. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. auto locksmith car key replacement depends on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different and requires specialized programming. This is only available through a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain an alternative. Dealerships may charge more than other locations, and they might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your car without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. They can be located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's guides. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even complete it all. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, however this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement.
People with German automobiles, for instance, that have the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.