Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob is not working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, which then 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 life jostling around in your purse and pockets, they can stop working as they age.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're 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. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.
Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature, but it could 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 operate 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.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at a price that 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 car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock the car from a distance. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you may be in a position to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors because even a door that is left open could affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to do the work for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and if they offer an assurance on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them at less than dealers. Read the Full Post can also make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you will need to engage an expert to replace the item. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
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 in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's guides or online. These steps can be quite difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip", which is similar to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.