Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other gadget that spends most of its time in your purses and pockets, they can stop working when they age.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be dangerous for people who tend to lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your car from a distance. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. replace keys are affordable and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your location to perform the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and can save you a lot of 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 a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of vehicles. They're a convenient way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay anything to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad selection of replacement key s, and can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Due to this additional 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.
Depending on your car's model and year, you might have the option to buy the new key fob at 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 need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to expedite 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 an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key that you can make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare or if the key requires replacement.
Those who have German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.