Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge depending on the make of the vehicle.
However, Consumer Reports reveals 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 going on in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent 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 you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside of them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call a locksmith.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which allow you to start and unlock your car via the internet. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually available online. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. These are cheap and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, since even one door that is left open could influence how the fob functions.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in a time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires special programming. This is only possible at the dealer.
You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your home to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations and they may not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and could save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They can be located at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for 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. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different method.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find an expert to replace it. But it may not be as cheap as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized 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.
replacement keys for cars offer instructions on self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be quite difficult, however, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even complete it all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank addition to a smart key that you can make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob may require professional programming however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only company with the tools needed to accomplish this.
