Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that your key fob is not working is to change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a convenient feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an locksmith.
If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact process depends on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your location to perform the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and could save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, activate 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 easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to your car's ignition. You can typically find these at the dealership or 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 sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to find an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially if the key fob includes a smart feature like an automatic locking system or remote start button.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Due to this additional 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.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob to complete the procedure. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
For replacements car key g28carkeys who have German cars, for instance one, with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.