Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do when the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time in your purses and pockets they may cease to function when they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work 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. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.
If you can purchase an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be auto locksmith car key replacement that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires specialized programming. This is only available by the dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price however, you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your home to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy 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 or she might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations, and they might not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of vehicles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to your car's ignition. They are typically found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
You can change your key with 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. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, particularly when the key fob has a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you might be able to purchase a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to the smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, however this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacement.
Suggested Reading with German cars, for example, that have the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealer. The reason for this is because 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.