Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break down over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.
You could be able to complete 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 the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you may be capable of programming a replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you wish to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by a dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to do the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably require an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may need a second key fob to complete the process. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys you can purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. how.much is a replacement car key 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 is required to be replaced.
Those who own German cars, for instance those that come with the "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.