Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do if your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car 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 fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
If you can purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. keyless car key replacement could affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that must be performed by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without the need for a traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on many automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to find a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
types of car keys offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' manuals or online. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.