Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge based on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they age.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have 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 in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact process depends on your vehicle model, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to the system.
Be keys replacement that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require specialized programming. This can only be done by a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have 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, if you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without using the traditional metal key. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, 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're a great method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and are able to program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can search the search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
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, especially if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security for less than what the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll probably require a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may need another key fob to complete the procedure. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional. However, this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.
For those with German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.