Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do if your key fob is not working is to change its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break in time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want 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 carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.
Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside of them that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. car key replacement is a great feature, but it can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
If you can purchase an additional key fob at a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. 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 let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, as even one door that is left open could influence how the fob functions.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you would like to add to the system.
This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require special programming. This is only available by the dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.
If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and they may not offer the best deal. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. 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 traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They're a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most common type of car key fob is the 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. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace the item. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably 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 manuals or on the internet. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available at the dealership. The reason for this is because these fobs typically use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the necessary equipment to do so.