Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're fortunate your dealer has
replacement keys for cars keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.
If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with it's possible to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. 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. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specific programming. This is only available at a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will
cost of a replacement car key and if they have a guarantee. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places and may not be the most affordable option. There are several other options for getting 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 allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. 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 well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that customers will pay for any service 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 your device.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and they can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But that might not be as cheap as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
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 are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and start it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in
Car key fobs and Remotes security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still require a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' guides or online. The steps are somewhat difficult, however, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even to complete it all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
replacement key for car fobs for German cars with a "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be 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.
