Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take when your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need 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 and replace it with the new one.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, since even one door left open could influence how the fob works.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be done by a dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed 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 they may not offer the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They are a great way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. While replacement car key costs 's not easy to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or a remote start button.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed 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 than what you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. But, you'll most likely require an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be quite difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming 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 a professional to program however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.