Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time, just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain detailed programming information. Make replacement keys for car that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. Learn Additional are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors as even one door left open can influence how the fob operates.
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 period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to do the work.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have an assurance on the work. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will 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
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not offer the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without using a traditional key made of metal. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of automobiles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. These are usually found at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different 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 dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.
Whether you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But it may not be as costly as you think, especially when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or a remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model and year, you might have the option to buy the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost 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 on their websites or in their owner's guides. These steps can be quite difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase an extra key at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require a professional to program, however, which can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company that has the equipment necessary to do this.
