Key fobs are some of the most common pieces of equipment that the automotive locksmith experts here at Top Locksmith regularly service. However, in our experience, we find that much of the public remains confused as the best approach to take when car transponder key fobs aren’t working correctly. In this blog post, our expert car lockout technicians will provide some detail as to the difference between repairing and replacing car key fobs.
First Off – Does your Car have a Valet Key?
Many cars today have special valet keys that allow car valets to move your car a short distance to park it, while not gaining access to the entirety of the vehicle’s features. Valet keys are usually hidden inside a key fob, and can easily be released by depressing a small button on the fob. You might not see the key hole for the valet key easily, but it’s there – potentially behind a small panel on the door handle, behind the button on the ignition, or somewhere on the steering column or dashboard. Consult your car manual to find the precise location. If your car does have a valet key, this gives you a bit more time to decide to repair or replace your key fob.
Reprogramming / Repairing Key Fobs
A skilled, licensed automotive repair technician can easily repair or reprogram key fobs for nearly all vehicles. They can easily reprogram key fobs to match your vehicles specifications, and can usually repair issues with your key fob transmission. However, most car technicians CANNOT repair or replace Mercedes-Benz keys, as this car brand does not allow independent contractors to access the key programming software. Contact a trusted licensed local automotive car key repair service to determine if your transponder keys can be repaired, or if they will need to be replaced. Both of these operations should be easy and affordable.
Lost Key Fobs
If you have lost your key fob, you will need to replace it. We highly stress the practicality of contacting a licensed automotive locksmith in this situation, rather than going to the car manufacturer or auto dealership. Car dealerships will charge you a major premium, sometimes over one thousand dollars for a replacement key fob. Key fobs can often be ordered online, however these fobs are usually of an inferior quality. The best way of getting a replacement fob is to contact an automotive locksmith, who can program you a new key on the spot and for a fair and convenient price.