Many cars now use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge according to the model of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing you need to do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other gadget that spends most of its time in your purses and pockets they are prone to break when they age.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying a replacement key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
car keys replacement cost are equipped with electronic keys, that allow you to start and unlock your car from a distance. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you may be in a position to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it's got new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors because even a door left open can influence how the fob works.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a certain time period generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication 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 that use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is different and requires specialized programming. This is only possible by an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost however, you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to perform the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other locations, and they might not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay for anything to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
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 an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, especially when the key fob has a smart feature like the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons.
Smart keys are utilized in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only licensed 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 may be able to purchase a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a 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 self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps are quite difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one.
If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.
Those who own German cars, for example, that have a "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the equipment necessary to accomplish this.
