Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break as they age.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in 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 pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
If you're able to buy an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, which allow you to start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or need to replace it, you might be capable of programming a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door left open can affect how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car has different types of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee, but you might be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a lot of vehicles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, especially when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you might be able to purchase the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
replacement car key provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. The steps are somewhat difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional. However, this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacement.
For those with German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.