Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and begin your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your car.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break in time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even 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 have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which allow you to start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you might be able to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only done by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the work.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships might charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now common on many vehicles. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However you can save cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, particularly if the key fob includes a smart feature like automatic locking or a remote start button.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. But, automotive key replacement require a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's guides or online. These steps can be difficult and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob may require professional programming, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
For those with German cars, for example one, with a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.