10 Facts About Car Key Fob Replacement That Insists On Putting You In A Good Mood
Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of your car.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do if your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other gadget that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per 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 latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it can be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock your car from a distance. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could influence how the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate and requires specialized programming. This can only be done through a dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. But spare car key replacement charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and are able to program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time the key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you could have the option to buy a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob may require professional programming, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" that functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs typically use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only company that has the tools needed to accomplish this.