Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge based on the make of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do if your key fob isn't working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its time in your pockets and purse they may cease to function when they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an locksmith.
If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, because even a door left open can affect how well the fob works.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10-30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the work.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
If you own a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and are able to cut and program 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 area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you will need to find an expert to replace the item. But it may not be as cheap as you think, especially if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you might have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. 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 traditional metal keys you can purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key's metal was not lost in the fob. replacement key fob car with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip", which is similar to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.