Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge based on the make of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that will work with your car. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a 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.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only available through an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to complete the work at a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the work.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for an alternative. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without using a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a lot of automobiles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy 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 manner.
If you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. replacement key for a car can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. 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 may have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be quite difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process or even to complete it all. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement.
Those with German cars, for instance one, with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealer. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only company that has the necessary equipment to accomplish this.