Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you based on the make of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
G28 Car Keys
If your key fob isn't working the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they are prone to break as they age.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best 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 purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it has fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors since even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the exact 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 can only be performed by a dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however, you may be in a position to save money by 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 come to your location to do the work.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they have the possibility of a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on many automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be located at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is hit. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model and year, you might have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's guides or online. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however and you may need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to its smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing.
For those who have German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. The reason is that these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company with the tools needed to do so.