Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any device that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working when they age.
If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door that is left open could impact how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob or an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often charge 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 locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They are typically located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different method.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
car key replacement price have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is press. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types 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 it would cost through a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob to complete the process. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require professional programming however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
For those with German cars, for example those that come with a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.