Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take when your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse, they can stop working when they age.
If you're lucky your dealer has 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 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 remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and some require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door left open could influence how the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you would like to add to your vehicle's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses an alternative type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that is only performed by an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your home to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
g28carkeys is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers 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 selecting the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can replace your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly if the key fob includes a smart feature like automatic locking or remote start button.
Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's manuals. The steps are somewhat difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could need to be programmed 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 replacing.
Those who own German cars, for example, that have the "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife could only find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.