Many cars now use key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
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. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create 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 available online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could impact how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat replacement keys car for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to do the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships may charge more than other locations, and they might not offer the best deal. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without using a traditional key made of metal. 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 first became popular in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles have them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.
You can change your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at less than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you will need to find an expert to replace it. It may not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. These codes are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob in order to complete the process. It is advisable for both the 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 an extra key at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed however, which could be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.
People who own German cars, for instance one, with the "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only company that has the equipment necessary to do so.
