Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you should do is change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a specific sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other gadget that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they may cease to function when they age.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new one.
Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or require an upgrade you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob in a time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only available by a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
automotive key replacement
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without the need for the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a great way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to your car's ignition. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for 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 it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
If you own a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and can program and cut them for less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.
auto key replacement are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less than what the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob might require programming by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through 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.