Are You Responsible For The Car Key Fob Replacement Budget? 12 Tips On How To Spend Your Money
Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it could be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize 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's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive 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 specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They may even be able to your home to complete the work.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even 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. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive 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 metal key. 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 gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of vehicles. They're a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
car replacement key inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to engage a professional to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be quite difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key that you can get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require a professional to program, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
People who have German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only company with the tools needed to do this.