Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets, they can stop working as they age.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. car key barrel replacement are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob in a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car has different types of key fob, or has 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 using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They might even be able to your home to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive 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 the need for a traditional metal key. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They're a convenient way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are usually available 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 types of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, like remote start or automatic locking.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you might have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even complete it all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the equipment necessary to do so.