Replacing a Key Fob
Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow drivers to open doors, turn off the alarm remotely and start the engine. These remote devices look like advanced car keys with buttons, and they often hide a switchblade key or laser-cut keys within.
You can purchase an alternative key for your vehicle by visiting an auto dealer, or an automotive locksmith. But, you might also have other options. Here are a few.
Battery
The key fob is used to control the security features of your car, including remote entry and ignition start. In the 1990s, keyless entry became a standard. Most new models use key fobs to open doors and activate alarms at the press of a button. Key fobs can price from $150 to several hundred dollars depending on the features they come with. It is easy and inexpensive to replace the battery on a key fob even without visiting an authorized dealer.
The battery in your keyfob is a shaped coin unit. It is removed from the plastic clip by removing it. After releasing the clip, you can take off the battery that was in place and replace it with the new one using a screwdriver or other tool. Some key fobs come with batteries that is easily removed by sliding it out, while others require more effort to replace. After removing the old battery, remove the plastic or metal covering the posts, both positive and negative. The positive posts are typically identified by a cover in red and a cable while the negative is marked with an orange stripe or an inscription.
The older key fobs appear like a key chain decoration, with buttons to open the door and start your engine. Often, these devices conceal a key inside the fob, which can be cut by any locksmith. The latest fobs, which do not contain the secret key, function differently. They have an electronic transmitter that emits unique signals that can only be read by your vehicle.
If you have an extra key fob try using it to see whether it can be used with the ignition in your car. If it doesn't, you'll have to have the key fob changed by an expert dealer. If you have a key fob with more advanced features like an LCD display, it could be more expensive, but it will also likely be the only way to use your vehicle. Some dealers charge a fee for this service, whereas others have a technician on hand who can do it.
Programming
Key fobs are an electronic device that lets you to unlock your car and occasionally start it without the use of a physical key. It is powered by a tiny battery and communicates using radio frequencies with your vehicle. Most vehicles employ an identification code to identify the appropriate radio frequency to transmit information. If the replacement fob is not properly programmed, the vehicle will not recognize it and will not start or unlock the doors.
The programming process is relatively easy for most cars, and most key fobs are reprogrammable through a locksmith or dealership. It requires a working key fob and the appropriate code for your particular vehicle, which is usually included in the owner's guide or can be obtained from a dealer. It also requires the right tools, which are available at some dealerships, auto parts stores and some locksmiths.
Some key fobs require reprogramming using specific software, which is only accessible by an authorized dealership or auto locksmith. These programs are utilized to ensure the integrity of the EEPROM system which stores security codes as well as other sensitive information on the computer of your vehicle. Consumer Reports explains that if the wrong software is installed, it could cause damage to your EEPROM system and cause the loss of your vehicle.
Experts advise against the temptation to buy an inexpensive replacement fob online and try to save money by attempting to program it yourself. You could compromise the security of your vehicle, and you may also cause other problems like an unrepaired fob or a computer that is not functioning properly.
A locksmith will be competent to program an entirely new key for you at a reasonable cost. Choose a reputable business which is insured in the event things go wrong and your vehicle is damaged. In addition, it's an excellent idea to look over your warranty, car insurance policy, or auto club membership to determine whether they'll pay for the cost of a new key fob or help pay for any costs associated with the repair.
Dealership
Traditionally, simple keys made of metal were used to open car doors and start it up. But, in the '90s and beyond, more and more cars were sold with key fobs which allowed convenience features like push-button ignition and enhanced security. Nowadays, nearly every new car is offered with a key fob as standard equipment.
If you've got lost a key fob it, the only way to replace it is to visit the dealer, where you'll have to pay for a new one and have it programmed for your vehicle. keyless car fob replacement could cost hundreds of dollars, depending on the type of key and the features.
The manufacturer of the car decides the cost of an replacement key fob. This varies based on brand, materials, keyless entry features, and so on. A key fob that is equipped with advanced security features like rolling code encryption and anti-theft will cost more than a fob that only allows you to unlock doors and start the car.
The cost of a replacement key fob could be covered by your warranty, auto insurance policy or an auto club membership. In some instances you can save money by purchasing a fob from an auto parts shop with a similar design and programming as the original one. You can also find inexpensive and simple-to-program replacement fobs for many vehicles from online retailers.
Some dealerships only sell replacement fobs that work with the car model you drive. This is usually due to their high-tech systems. For instance, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other luxury brands employ special rolling-code encryptions which isn't deciphered by aftermarket fobs.
If you have an older vehicle with a simple keyfob, you can purchase the replacement from a big box retailer or hardware store for about $50. You can then replace the battery yourself or ask for a locksmith in your area to do it for you. The majority of batteries used in car key fobs are in the shape of coins and cost around $10 or less. This is a simple fix. There are instructions in your owner's manual or by searching YouTube for the model you have.
Auto Parts Store
If you're replacing the traditional key that doesn't have fob, or you have a key fob, but the mechanical car key isn't working for some reason you could save money by visiting your local auto parts store instead of the dealership. They typically have an array of key replacements, from basic rectangular or oval key fobs to switchblade kinds. keyless car fob replacement can also cut a key and program it for you at a fraction of the cost of the dealership.
The majority of modern cars have fobs that transmit radio frequency signals to the vehicle. This technology, first developed in the late 90s, enables you to lock and open your car doors, turn off the alarm, and also open the trunk without putting an actual key into the ignition. Fobs can be programmed for several different vehicles, however they aren't always compatible. If your fob isn't functioning properly, it could be necessary to replace the entire unit, rather than just the key.
Some fobs can be purchased online through retailers such as Amazon, eBay, or specialized automotive dealers. However, the most recent models are typically only available through dealers. This is because dealers have the special equipment required to prep the fob and ensure that it's compatible with your specific vehicle. Some fobs that are older -- those from cars manufactured before the '90s and don't have a sophisticated security system -are available at the auto parts store and then programmed using online instructions.
Consumer Reports says that the most efficient method to save money on a key for your car replacement is to compare prices prior to making a purchase. They suggest, for example calling your auto insurance and roadside assistance provider to determine whether they are able to help.
You can also attempt to fix the issue yourself, by waiting for a few days before buying the new key. Extreme cold and heat or even sweat can cause fobs to stop functioning so you may be able to cause it back to life by giving it some time to rest. You might also be able to fix your fob if you reset it. This is a straightforward procedure that's detailed in your owner manual.