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Car Key Fob Replacement Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle. Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob ceases to work the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they are constantly sending out a coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though — like any gadget that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they age. If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your car. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board. Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out if your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with 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 have trouble with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need. You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an additional key from the dealership. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment to program. Programming Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, that allow you to start and unlock your car from a distance. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has fresh batteries. Read Homepage are affordable and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door left open could impact how well the fob functions. To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob in the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system. Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars which use the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need special programming. This can only be done by the dealer. You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the job. Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment. Dealerships If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money. A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without using the traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it. The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key. Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to get their car 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 the device. You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. There are many locksmiths that carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you. Locksmiths If your key fob is lost, you will need to find an expert to replace the item. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking. Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys. It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership. Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's guides or online. The steps are quite difficult, however, and you might need an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one. If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional, however this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing. For those who own German cars, for instance one, with a “flip” function that is akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.