Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any gadget that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they age.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at many auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside of them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.
If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs can be used with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car via the internet. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car has different types of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically cost more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles 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 your car.
car key replacements used type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. These are usually found at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is pressed. These codes aren't saved 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 only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less money than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still require a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob to complete the process. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to the smart key it is possible to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as 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 the key requires replacement.
For those who have German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife could only find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.