Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Typically replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your car. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside of them that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours or need a new one you might be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car, but instructions are often accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are cheap and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and remove the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that must be done by a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If keys replacement have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other locations and they may not be the most affordable option. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and can save you lots of money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. The latter are the most popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
Whether you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to hire an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. 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. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Based on the model and year, you may have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs online or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may require an additional key fob in order to complete the process. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, but this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.
Those who own German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.