Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they age.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if 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 are prone to losing their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.
If you can purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours or require an upgrade you may be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires specialized programming. This is only available by a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your home to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and may not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. vehicle key replacement 's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They are a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. While it's not easy 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 the device.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace the item. But that might not be as expensive as you think, especially if the key fob includes a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may require an additional key fob to complete the process. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to its smart key that you can make a spare at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.