Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your car.
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 over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could influence how the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that is only done by a dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them how much they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other locations, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a great way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. They are typically found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
You can replace 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 offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with a smart feature like an automatic locking system or a remote start button.
Smart keys are found in all modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending an unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you may have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If car key replacement near me has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.
People who own German automobiles, for instance one, with a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs typically use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.