Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge depending on the make of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing to do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break in time as does any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and even 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. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one.
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 great feature, but it can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or require to replace it you may be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. 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 functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you want to add to the system.
This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different, it will need special programming. This is only available at the dealer.
auto car key replacement offer this service for a flat cost however you may be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your home to complete the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to get a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. There are alternatives to get your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. automotive key replacement are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. These are usually located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
If you own an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is hit. These codes aren't saved on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified 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 from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less than what you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob to complete the procedure. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get an extra key at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require a professional to program however, which could increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
People who have German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.