9 . What Your Parents Teach You About Car Key Fob Replacement
Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you according to the model of your car.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first step to take if your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time just like any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell replacement car key key fob batteries that will work with your car. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with the new one.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for people with an inclination 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 are having issues with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine if the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and some require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the function of the fob.
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 certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only available through an authorized dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to do the work for a fraction what you would pay in the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.
If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what their charges are and if they offer an assurance on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular 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 now common on many vehicles. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most commonly used car key fob model 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. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. These locations offer a wide range of replacement car key costs keys and they can program and cut them for cheaper than dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. 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 for these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you might have the option of purchasing an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob 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 has a traditional metal key, you can get one at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, however this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.
People who have German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function, which is similar to a switchblade knife, might only be able to get replacement keys for car fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.