Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any gadget that spends most of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they get older.
If you're lucky your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if 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 is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.
You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs 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 might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors as even one door left open could influence how the fob operates.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different and requires special programming. This can only be done through a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. 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 for a replacement. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations and may not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without using a traditional key made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles include them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to your car's ignition. These are usually located at an auto parts store or dealership. car replacement key of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to hire an expert to replace the item. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you may have the option to buy the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip", which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.