Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets, they can stop working when they age.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. 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 call an locksmith if you 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 option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your car from a distance. If you lose yours or need a new one you may be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could influence how the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars which use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need special programming. This is only available by the dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong 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 a lot of cars include them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They can be found at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.
car key replacement
If your key fob is lost, you will need to find a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, like remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are utilized in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you may be able to purchase the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll probably require an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or online. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key, you can get an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.