Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your car.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however like any other device that spends most of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they age.
If you're fortunate your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the latest fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. key replacement for car cost use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to buy an additional key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often available online. 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. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functionality 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 for a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that must be performed by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and may not be the most affordable option. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper 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 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 alert or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to find an expert to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option of purchasing the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through the dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be professionally programmed however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Those who have German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. The reason is that these fobs typically use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the tools needed to accomplish this.