Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob isn't working is to change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it could be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If key replacements for cars are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or contact an locksmith if you need.
If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. If you lose yours, or require a new one you may be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it's got new batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door that is left open could influence how the fob works.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your car without the need for a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They are typically found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or remote start button.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys, you can get a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key was not lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. 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 generally the only company with the tools needed to accomplish this.