Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working, the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any device that spends most of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement compatible with your car. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature but can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram how much are car key replacements , turn off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by switching 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 fobs you wish to add to the system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only performed by 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 accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule 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 charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional key made of metal. 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 were first popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
If you own a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. 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 then start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require a professional to program, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.
Those who have German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company with the tools needed to accomplish this.