Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want 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 of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket 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 that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different and requires special programming. This is only possible at a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even inform you of the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several other options for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected 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 which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, especially when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
Based on the model and year, you might be able to purchase a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go 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.
auto locksmith car key replacement provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or online. The steps are quite difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even to complete it all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, however this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" that functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.