Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when the key fob you have is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other gadget that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase 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 battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require a new one, you might be able to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This is only available through an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to complete the work at less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and they may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of automobiles. car fob key replacement 're a great way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
If you own an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. 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 its smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
People who have German cars, for instance, that have the "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.