Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Replacing automotive car key replacement requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob isn't working is to replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any gadget that spends most of its time in your purse and pockets, they can stop working when they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues 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.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock your car from a distance. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise 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 of the new fob within a time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your car has different types of key fob, or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be done by a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the work.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and may not offer the best deal. There are alternatives to get your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you lots of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car 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, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.
You can exchange your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They offer a broad range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to hire a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.
Based on the model of your car and year, you could be able to purchase a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership.
Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the disappointment of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
People who own German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.