10 Facts About Car Key Fob Replacement That Insists On Putting You In Good Mood
Car Key Fob Replacement
Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and begin your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer who will charge based on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working, the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll usually want 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 need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.
If you're able to buy 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 option than paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and some require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be capable of programming a replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat web link for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your car has an alternative type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that can only be performed by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the tools to do the work for less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be tempted, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations and they may not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm 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 are a convenient way to open your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They are typically located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that's not associated 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 less than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require a professional to program however, which could increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" that is similar to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.