10 Things You Learned From Kindergarden That Will Help You With Car Key Fob Replacement
Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer who will charge according to the model of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any device that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an affordable price you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock the car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. The exact procedure is dependent on your vehicle model however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that utilize 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.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. There are several other options for getting your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. replacement keys for car are usually much less expensive than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time the key is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what you would pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or on the internet. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require another key fob that is functional to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys, you can get an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost in 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 if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
People who have German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.