Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of the vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. 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 contact a locksmith in the event of need.
If you're able to buy an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which let you start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle, but instructions are often available online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close automotive car key replacement at once. One open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires special programming. This is only available through a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations and they may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchesblade keys, which house the metal 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 physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to program and cut them for 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 is lost, you'll need to hire an expert to replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are found in all modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be difficult and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to a smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob will probably require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.