Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting a coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other gadget that spends most of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break when they age.
If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $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 a new one.
Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand 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 special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors since even one door left open can impact how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
Be car key replacements that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need special programming. This is only available by the dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They might even be able to your location to perform the work.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
If you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and can program and cut them for cheaper 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 to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start 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.
Based on the model of your car and year, you may have the option to buy the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob may require professional programming however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" that functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only company that has the necessary equipment to accomplish this.