Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge depending on the make of your car.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take when your key fob isn't working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If not, you can find them at a variety of 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. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, 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 frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This can only be done at a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has 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 are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They can be located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. automotive car key replacement function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. 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. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on automotive key replacement and year, you could have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. car key replacement could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be difficult and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" that is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the tools needed to do so.