Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways 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 replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break down over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside them that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature but can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, since even one door left open could impact how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle 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 might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require specialized programming. This is only available at an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however, you may be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the work.
If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Verify 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 may even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places and they 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 stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, how to get car key replacement can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be quite difficult, however, and you might need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional. However, this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available from 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 usually the only manufacturer with the necessary equipment to do so.