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9 Lessons Your Parents Taught You About Car Key Fob Replacement
Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars now use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges based on your vehicle's make.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than unlock and lock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other gadget that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function when they age.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set 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 the new one.
Some of the latest fobs have a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it could be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip could be reset or a locksmith if needed.
You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Modern cars come with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock your car via the internet. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's guides also contain 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 an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 minutes. replacement car key costs might respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.
This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is distinct, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.
A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be in a position to save money by making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to perform the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to get a replacement. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and could save you money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without using the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for anything to get their car back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and programming it in a different way.
If you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can also use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are found in most modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. The codes are not stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified 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 might have the option of purchasing the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or online. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. For that reason, it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one.
If your car has a traditional metal key, you can get an extra key at an 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 as well as the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.
Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip", which is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.