Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do when the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break down over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside of them that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. 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 let you start and unlock the car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm 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 cars that use the exact same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only possible by the dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other locations and they may not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper 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 car without the need for a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. car key replacement near me mobile are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.
Whether you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if went through the 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 doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's guides or online. The steps are quite difficult, however, and you might need another key fob that is functional to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to its smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob could require programming by a professional, but this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacing.
Those who own German cars, for instance those that come with the "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.