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 requires a visit to the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out an encoded signal in a specific sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break into pieces over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell batteries for keys that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a convenient feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, since even one door that is left open could impact how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different, it will need special programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. 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 to the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are replacement key for car near me for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which house the metal 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 car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise 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 automotive security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be quite difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may require a professional to program, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason is that the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do so.