Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.
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 replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer batteries for keys that will work with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. This is a great feature but can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade, you might be able to program the replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. emergency car key replacement may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that can only be done by a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your location to perform the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other locations and they may not be the most affordable option. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, 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 the traditional metal key. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of automobiles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different way.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, like automatic locking or remote start.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's guides or online. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.