Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your car.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break in time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find 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. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If replacement key for car near me are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you might be able to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require special programming. This is only available at a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the work at less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your home to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
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 car. They can be located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder, 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 dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
Whether you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, especially when the key fob has a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is hit. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also 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 of your car and year, you might have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the process. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may require professional programming however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.