Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer who will charge based on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you need to do is replace 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 sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function when they age.
If auto key replacement enough, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a great 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 have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. auto car key replacement is dependent on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors because even a door left open can affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible through the dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and may not provide the best price. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and could save you a lot of 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 or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However you can save cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different way.
If you own a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, especially if the key fob includes a smart feature like automatic locking or a remote start button.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could be able to purchase the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll probably require an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be difficult and you may need another key fob to complete the process. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key, you'll be able to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip", which is similar to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.