Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, 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 inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell batteries for keys that will work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob before installing the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're experiencing issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. These are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars which use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require special programming. This is only available by a dealer.
You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to perform the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys to visit a dealership to have them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They can be located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different way.
If G28CarKeys have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or a remote start button.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you might be able to purchase the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase a spare at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
For those who have German automobiles, for instance one, with the "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.