Replacing a Key Fob
Modern cars come with key fobs that permit drivers to remotely start the car and open the doors. They can also set off the alarm. These remote devices look like advanced car keys, with buttons, and often hide a switchblade key or laser-cut key inside.
You can obtain a replacement key for your car by going to an auto dealer, or an automotive locksmith. But, you might also have other options. Here are some of them.
Battery
The key fob is used to control the security features of your vehicle, such as remote entry and ignition start. Keyless entry became standard in the 1990s and many new models make use of key fobs as a way to open doors and activate alarms at the touch of a button. Based on the functions they serve, these devices can cost between $150 and several hundred dollars each. It is easy and inexpensive to replace a key fob's battery and without having to visit a dealer.
The battery inside your keyfob is a coin shaped device. It is removed from the clip made of plastic by removing it. After releasing the clip, you can take off the old battery and install a replacement with an instrument such as a screwdriver, or any other. Some key fobs come with batteries that can be easily removed by sliding it out, whereas others require more effort to replace. After removing the old battery, you must remove the plastic or metal covering the posts that are positive and negative. The positive posts are typically marked by a cover made of red and a cable, while the negative will be marked with a stripe of red or a sticker.
A few older key fobs look like a plastic keychain decoration with buttons that open the door or remotely start your car. Most of the time, these devices hide a physical key inside, which can be cut by any locksmith. Modern fobs that do not have a hidden key work differently, utilizing a transmitter to send unique signals that only your car can recognize and read.
If you have an additional key fob, use it to determine whether it works with the engine of your car. If it doesn't, you'll need to get the key fob reset by an authorized dealer. It can be expensive to purchase a key fob that has advanced features such as an LCD display. However, it will be the only way to use your vehicle. Some dealers charge an additional fee for this service, whereas others have a technician in their staff who can perform the service.
Programming
A key fob is 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 with your vehicle through radio frequencies. Most vehicles use codes to determine the correct radio frequency to transmit the information. If the replacement fob hasn't been properly programmed, the vehicle won't recognize the new fob and not open or start doors.
It is simple to re-program the majority of key fobs at the dealership or at a locksmith. It requires a functioning key fob and the code for your particular vehicle, which is usually included in the owner's manual or can be obtained from a dealer. The right tools are required, which can be found at some auto parts stores and dealerships, as well as certain locksmiths.
Certain key fobs require reprogramming using special software that is only accessible through a dealership or a reputable auto locksmith. These programs are utilized to ensure the integrity of the EEPROM system that stores security codes as well as other sensitive information on the computer in your vehicle. Consumer Reports explains that if the wrong software is installed, it could cause damage to your EEPROM system and disable your vehicle.
Experts recommend avoiding the temptation to purchase an inexpensive replacement fob and try to save money by attempting to program it yourself. In addition to the fact that you might be putting your vehicle's security at risk and safety, this could lead to additional problems such as an unrepaired fob or a disabled computer.
A locksmith will provide you with a brand new key fob and program it for a reasonable price. However, make sure you choose an established company with insurance in the event that the work goes sideways and your vehicle is damaged. It's also a good idea to look over your warranty, insurance policy, or auto club membership to get assistance or reimbursement for repair costs.
Dealership
Traditionally, simple keys made of metal were used to open doors of the car and also to start the car. However, in the 1990s and beyond, more and more cars were sold with key fobs that allowed convenience features like push-button ignition as well as improved security. Today, almost every new car has a keyfob as standard equipment.
If you lose your key fob, you will have to visit a dealer to purchase a new one. You'll also have to pay for it to be programmed to fit your vehicle. This could cost you hundreds of dollars depending on the type of key and its features.
The car's manufacturer decides the cost of a replacement key fob. It can differ based on the brand, the materials, keyless entry features, and more. inquiry that has advanced security features, such as anti-theft and rolling code encryption will cost more than a fob that only lets you unlock doors and start the car.
The cost of a replacement fob for your key could be covered by your warranty or auto insurance policy. It could also be covered under an auto club membership. In some cases, you can save money by purchasing a key fob from an auto parts shop that has a similar appearance and programming as your original one. There are also affordable and simple-to-program replacement fobs for numerous vehicles from online retailers.
Some dealers only sell replacement fobs that work with the car model you drive. This is usually due to their advanced systems. For instance, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other luxury brands utilize special rolling-code encryptions which isn't deciphered by aftermarket fobs.
If you have an older vehicle that is equipped with a simple key fob, you'll be able to buy a replacement for around $50 at a hardware store or big-box retailer. You can replace the battery yourself or have a locksmith take care of it. The majority of batteries found in car key fobs are coin-shaped, and they cost less than $10. This is a straightforward fix. The owner's manual or quick YouTube search will provide instructions on how to fix this issue for the majority of models.
Auto Parts Store
You can save money by visiting your local auto parts store instead of the dealership if you need to replace a traditional car key without fob or mechanical key in your car isn't working. They usually stock a wide range of key replacements, from basic rectangular or oval key fobs, to switchblade types. They can also cut keys and program it for you at just a fraction of the cost of a dealership.
The majority of modern cars have fob keys that communicate with the vehicle using radio frequency signals. This technology was developed in the 1990s and enables you to lock and unlock your car's doors, turn on the security system, and even open the trunk, all without the need for an actual key. Fobs are compatible with many vehicles however, not all. For this reason If your car has a fob that isn't functioning properly, you may have to replace the entire unit instead of just the key itself.
Certain fobs are available via online retailers like Amazon, eBay, or specific automotive retailers. However, the most recent models are generally only available through dealers. This is because dealers have the special equipment required to prep a fob to ensure it works with your specific vehicle. Some older fobs, those from cars made before the 1990s, and without sophisticated security systems can be bought at an auto parts store. They can then be programmed on the internet.
Consumer Reports suggests that a smarter approach to save money on the cost of replacing your car's key is to compare prices from different locations before you make a purchase. They suggest, for example, checking with your auto insurer and roadside assistance provider in order to see whether they are able to assist.
Additionally, you can try to fix your car's issue by putting off purchasing the replacement key. You may be able get your fob working again if you allow it to rest. Extreme temperatures and cold, or even sweat, can cause it cease to function. It's also possible that you might be able to fix your fob by resetting it, which is a fairly simple process that can be found in the manual of your owner.