Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
key fob replacement
If your key fob stops working the first thing you should do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other gadget that spends most of its time in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in a variety of 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 have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it's got fresh batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the function of the fob.
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 set time period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to have them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and they might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now common on a lot of automobiles. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
Whether you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is pressed. key fob replacement are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or online. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.