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Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars today use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges based on your vehicle's make.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working, the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to an inside car receiver 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 time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break when they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specialized programming. This can only be done at an authorized dealer.
You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job.
If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have an assurance on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you've lost your car keys, you may be tempted to visit the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and they may not provide the best price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal key. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a variety of vehicles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most commonly used type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. replacement car keys are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for anything to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.
You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find a professional to replace it. But that might not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as automatic locking or remote start buttons.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.
Depending on your car's model and year, you could be able to purchase an entirely new key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. However, you'll probably require an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may need another key fob to complete the process. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase one at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced.
For those who have German cars, for example those that come with the "flip" function that is similar to a switchblade knife, could only find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.
