Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break down over time as does any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can 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 having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the car 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 car. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors as even one door left open could affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to your car's system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob or an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be performed by a dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. There are other options for getting your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now common on many vehicles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, especially if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button.
Smart keys are used in all modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. 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 begin it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could be able to purchase the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or on the internet. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even to complete it all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
check this site out for German cars that have the "flip", which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only company with the necessary equipment to do this.