Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs 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 you according to the model of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. replacement key car emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside of them that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset or an locksmith if you need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the car remotely. If you lose yours, or require a new one, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different and requires specialized programming. This can only be done at the dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s, and many 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 take it.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as cheap as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less money than the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, however this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.
Replacement fobs for German cars with a "flip" which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do this.