Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do when your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time as does any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for people with an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having trouble, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be capable of programming the replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are cheap and easy to replace but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the function of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob for the same time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. automotive car key replacement of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer an assurance on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other locations and they may not offer the best deal. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on many automobiles. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are popular because they let you open and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any specific car manufacturer. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you will need to find an expert to replace it. But that might not be automotive key replacement as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are found in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These 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 additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's guides or online. These steps can be quite difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.