Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if the key fob you have is not working is to change its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them 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 unique signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob before installing 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 in the event that keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you may be capable of programming the replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door left open can impact how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by a dealer.
car key and fob replacement provide this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a variety of vehicles. They're a great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay for anything 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 employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you own an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to engage a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model and year, you could have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however, and you might need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to a smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, but this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the tools needed to accomplish this.