Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These little 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 the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break in time, just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock your car via the internet. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door left open could influence how the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the same time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need specific programming. This is only available at the dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to complete the work at less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to do the work.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships might charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without having to use the traditional metal key. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on many vehicles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you will need to engage a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. cost of replacement car key to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll probably require an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's guides or online. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.