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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges according to the vehicle's make. Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob ceases to work the first thing to do is replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver within the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break down over time as does any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse. If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with a new one. Certain of the more recent fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature but can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call a locksmith. You may be able do the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed. Programming Modern cars come with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you may be capable of programming a replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, be sure you have fresh batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors since even one door left open can affect how well the fob works. To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system. This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is separate and requires specific programming. This is only possible through a dealer. You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the work. If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service before you make an appointment. Dealerships You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other places, and they might not offer the best deal. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money. A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle. The most common type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to the ignition of your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without physical keys. A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner. If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area. Locksmiths If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find an expert to replace the item. It might not be as costly as you think if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic. Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. funny post to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys. You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security for less than what you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment the dealership employs. Some automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or on the internet. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even complete it all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one. If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key that you can get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing. For those with German cars, for instance, that have the “flip” function that is similar to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.