Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
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 devices are replacing traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip could be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different, it will need special programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. car key replacements may even be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. There are other options for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on many vehicles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys or a smart electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, especially if the key fob includes a smart feature like an automatic locking system or a remote start button.
Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option to buy the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through the dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses.
Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's guides or online. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to a smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacement.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip", which is similar to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company with the tools needed to do so.