Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge depending on the make of your vehicle.
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 little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.
If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.
Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Verify your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to get a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives to get your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and could save you a lot of money.
A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a piece of plastic, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.
Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs as they know that customers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can search 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 an expert to replace the item. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
Based on the model and year, you could be able to purchase a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. G28 Car Keys can be difficult and you may require a second key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.
If your car has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.
Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" that functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.