Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.
However, 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 devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however like any other gadget that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break when they age.
If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature but can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the
key replacement for car fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your
car keys replacement near me to see whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with
Electronic Car Key Replacement keys, which allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted 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 affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only available by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations and they may not be the most affordable option. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you lots of 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 allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a cheap
replacement keys car fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a particular
car key battery replacement manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.
Smart keys are found in most modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than the
cost of replacement car keys you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require professional programming however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip", which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company with the equipment necessary to do this.
