Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your car.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a specific sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time, just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, you can find 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 prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature but can be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours or require to replace it you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functioning 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 within a predetermined time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car might respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is distinct and requires specific programming. This can only be done by the dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the work at less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, especially when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
Smart keys are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. car key mobile replacement 'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to the smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.