Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge depending on the make of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do if your key fob is not working is to change its battery. car key replacement that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your pockets and purse, they can stop working when they age.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for those who tend to lose their 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, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be auto key replacement that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only possible by the dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several other options for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your car without having to use the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them 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 piece, and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can program and cut them for less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. However, it might not be as costly as you think, especially when the key fob has a smart feature like automatic locking or a remote start button.
Smart keys are found in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still require a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be difficult and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Those who own German cars, for instance those that come with a "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the equipment necessary to do this.