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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard key fob requires a visit to the dealership and the cost is based on your vehicle's make. But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is change its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device that spends most of its life jostling around in your purse and pockets, they can stop working as they age. If you're lucky your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob before installing the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board. Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside of them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob to open 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 an locksmith. If you can purchase an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment for programming. Programming Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require a new one, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals contain details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door left open could influence how the fob operates. To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by switching on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to add to your vehicle's system. This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need special programming. This is only available at the dealer. You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to perform the work. If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment. Dealerships You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other locations and they may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money. A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without using a traditional key 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 and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s, and many vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it. The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without the need for a physical key. A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a low-cost replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device. You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer, whether you have traditional metal keys or a sophisticated electronic key. car key replacement of these locations carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood. Locksmiths If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as costly as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start button. The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys. You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll probably require an expert to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes. Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owner's manuals or online. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob to complete the process. This is why it's prudent for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one. If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to a smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost together with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional, but this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare or if your key requires replacement. Replacement fobs for German cars that have a “flip” which is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.