Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals 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 its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a specific sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a great feature, but it can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.
If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program it yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock your car remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the work.
If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of vehicles. They're a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
If you own a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. key replacement car of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. The codes are not stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model and year, you might have the option to buy the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's guides or online. The steps are somewhat difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed however, which could increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.