How To Explain Car Key Fob Replacement To Your Grandparents
Car Key Fob Replacement
A lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges 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 when your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though like any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets, they can stop working when they age.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. 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, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a useful feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed.
Programming
The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you might be able to program the replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door left open can influence how the fob operates.
To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could respond by cycling the locks and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your vehicle's system.
This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by a dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.
Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.
Dealerships
You may be enticed when you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. 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. key replacement car are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.
A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s, and many vehicles have them as standard features. They can be a useful 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 push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.
A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.
You can change your key with an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and can cut and program them at less than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has a smart feature like an automatic locking system or remote start button.
Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that 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 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 the dealer. However, you'll likely still require an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.
Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key, you can get a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.
Those who own German automobiles, for instance, that have the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the tools needed to accomplish this.