Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing to do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it can be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.
If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you 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. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible by the dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however, you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They are typically found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge key fob prices because they know that customers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. car key replacement near me can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as cheap as you think, especially when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending an unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be difficult and you may need a second key fob to complete the procedure. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the 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 require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" that is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.