The Main Issue With Car Key Fob Replacement, And What You Can Do To Fix It
Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require a visit to the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any device that spends most of its time in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specific programming. automotive key replacement is only available by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other locations and they may not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper 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 having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of vehicles. They're a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or a remote start button.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be difficult and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys, you can get a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, however this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip", which is similar to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the equipment necessary to do so.