Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
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If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break down over time as does any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This is only possible at a dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open 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 your car's ignition. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and are able to program and cut them for less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to engage a professional to replace the item. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the procedure. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is because 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 company that has the tools needed to do so.