Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob is not working is to change its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock 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 an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they are prone to break as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually 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 and replace it with a new one.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a great feature, but it could be dangerous for people who tend to lose 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 experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or require a new one you may be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning 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 fobs you want to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car has different types of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your location to do the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and are able to cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.
my homepage are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. 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 of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model and year, you may be able to purchase a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be quite difficult, however you may require another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even complete it all. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get one at the 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 will probably require professional programming, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.