Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer who will charge based on the make of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time, just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.
If you can purchase a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it's got fresh batteries. These are cheap and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, since even one door left open could impact how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only available through an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might 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 the price you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the work.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Examine car key replacements or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay anything to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith who is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as costly as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or a remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even to complete it all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed however, which could increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip", which is similar to a 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 programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.