Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that will work with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having trouble getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be able to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has new batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. i was reading this may even be able to come to your home to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to open and start your car without physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Smart keys are found in all modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. 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 extra layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps are somewhat difficult, however, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys you can purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
Those with German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.