Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge based on the make of the vehicle.
But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here’s how:
Battery
The first thing to do if the key fob you have is not working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to unlock and lock your car keys replacement cost. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break down over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you’re lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You’ll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you’ll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Certain of the more recent fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don’t work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to operate the doors. If you’re having trouble with this, you’ll need to contact your car manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need.
If you’re able to buy a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car keys replacement, and that most require special equipment to program.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically available online. Owner’s guides can also provide details on programming. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors because even a door left open could impact how well the fob functions.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car replacement keys near me might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different, it will need specialized programming. This is only available at a dealer.
Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you’d pay at a dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the job.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations and they may not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It’s typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They are a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.
The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to your car’s ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical key.
A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It’s not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.
If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that’s not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.
Locksmiths
If your key fob is missing, you’ll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.
Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren’t saved on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this additional layer of security, it’s usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security at a lower cost than the cost for car key replacement you would pay if bought it through a dealer. But, you’ll most likely have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner’s guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.
If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key that you can make a spare at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn’t get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require a professional to program, however, which can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
For those with German automobiles, for instance one, with the “flip” function, which is similar to a switchblade knife, might only be able to get replacement key fob for car fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs use an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.
