Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing you should do is change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break into pieces over time, just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. automotive key replacement is a convenient feature but can be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.
If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you might be capable of programming a replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that you have new batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, because even a door left open could impact how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob or a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that is only done by a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. Dealerships can charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. automotive key replacement are often cheaper than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without using a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They're a great way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to your car's ignition. These are usually found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire a professional to replace the item. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. 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. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Based on the model and year, you could have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or online. The steps aren't easy and you may need another key fob to complete the process. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has a traditional metal key, you can get one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require a professional to program, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.