Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you should do is change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close car fob key replacement at once. One open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate and requires special programming. This is only possible through an authorized 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 to do the job at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home 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 and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several other options for getting your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your car without using a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now common on a lot of automobiles. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
car fob key replacement inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with a smart feature like automatic locking or a remote start button.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you might have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys, you can get one at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require professional programming however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
For those with German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. The reason is that these fobs usually 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 equipment necessary to do so.