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 a dealer who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing you should do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. This is a great feature but can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. replacement key for a car is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock the car via the internet. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door that is left open could impact how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only available by a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. 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 travel to your location to do the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places and may not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a useful way 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 a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you 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 anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can use the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to hire a professional to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. replacement auto key aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less than what the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' guides or online. The steps aren't easy and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
For those who own German cars, for instance, that have the "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically a special 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 equipment necessary to do this.