Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques 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 replace the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break in time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate your dealer has batteries for
replacement keys for car keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, that can
cost for replacement car key between $2 and $4 American for a set 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 the new one.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, you'll need 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 an additional key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need specialized programming. This is only available through a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to do the work for a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even inform you of 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 an alternative. Dealerships can charge more than other locations, and they might not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of automobiles. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at an independent
locksmith car key replacement cost that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to hire an expert to replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, especially when the key fob has a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a
Locksmith Car Key Replacement Cost or hardware store that specializes in car security at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob to complete the process. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working 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 make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
For those who own German automobiles, for instance one, with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.
