Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing you should do is change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly emitting a coded signal in a specific sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time as does any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to 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. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. car key replacement use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you're having 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 might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the car remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be able to program an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it's got fresh batteries. They are cheap and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. i was reading this can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only available at an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different method.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, especially when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional metal key, you can get an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.