Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you based on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're lucky your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
car key replacement near me of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact process depends on the model of your car however instructions are typically available online. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure you have fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors as even one door left open could impact how well the fob works.
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 certain time period typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require specific programming. This can only be done at the dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are 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
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has an advanced feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' manuals or online. These steps can be difficult and you may require another key fob in order to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional. However, this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.
People who have German cars, for instance those that come with the "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.