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Car Key Fob Replacement Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and start your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership, which 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 you need to do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break into pieces over time as does any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your pockets or purse. If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want 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 and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board. Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith. If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and some require special equipment to be programmed. Programming The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door that is left open could influence how the fob functions. To reprogram a remote key, switch off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob for a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle. Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars that use the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require special programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer. You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the equipment to complete the task for less than what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job. Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Also, check replacement key for car near me -car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment. Dealerships If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and can save you money. A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without using the traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now standard on many automobiles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle. The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without physical key. Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way. Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to locate an independent locksmith in your area. Locksmiths If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking. Smart keys are used in all modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys. It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership. Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the anxiety of losing one. If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement. Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a “flip”, which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do this.