Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a specific sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other gadget that spends the majority of its time in your purse and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a useful feature but can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset or an locksmith if you need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you might be in a position to program the replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different and requires specialized programming. This is only available by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price however, you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the equipment to do the work for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They may even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
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If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership for a replacement. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and may not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a great way to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is pressed. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you might be able to purchase a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key you can purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, but this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.
People who have German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the equipment necessary to do this.