Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any device that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets they may cease to function when they age.
If you're lucky your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you might 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 contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. These are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors as even one door left open could impact how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by cycling the locks or turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat automotive key replacement for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This is only possible through the dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able to your location to do the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and they may not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to hire an expert to replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely require an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's guides. The steps are somewhat difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its 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 isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only company with the equipment necessary to do so.