Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of your car.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to the car's receiver 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 jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or 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 prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new one.
Cheapest car key replacement near me come with an electronic key inside of them that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.
If you can purchase an additional key fob at an affordable price you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at 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
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if 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 contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it's got fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close replacement car key fob as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in a certain time period generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on cars that use 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 performed by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however you may be able to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have 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. Dealerships might charge more than other places, and they might not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles include them as standard features. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal 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 key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
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 affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can even use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire a professional to replace the item. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less than what you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to the smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob might require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.
For those with German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company that has the necessary equipment to accomplish this.