Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do when your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break down over time just like any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient 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 on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine if 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 buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require to replace it you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors as even one door left open could affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses different types of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. car transponder key replacement have the equipment to complete the work at a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They may even be able to your location to do the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without having to use the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on many automobiles. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay anything to get their car back. While it's not easy 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.
If you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can search a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith 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 inexpensive as you think if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, however this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.