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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer, which charges according to the vehicle's make. However, 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 the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however like any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function as they get older. If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board. Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having trouble getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call a locksmith. If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and require specialized equipment for programming. Programming Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock your car from a distance. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could affect the functioning of the fob. To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to your vehicle's system. Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible through the dealer. Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to your location to do the job. If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a warranty on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover 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 before you schedule an appointment. Dealerships If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships may charge more than other places, and they might not be the most affordable option. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money. A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it. The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a piece of plastic and keyless entry fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your car without a physical key. replacement car keys price overcharge key fob prices because they know that customers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way. You can change your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide choice of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your area. Locksmiths If your key fob is lost, you will need to hire an expert to replace it. It might not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob has an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start. Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob, but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys. You might be able to purchase a new keyfob from a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes. Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their user's guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one. If your car has an old-fashioned key shank in addition to the smart key that you can make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacement. Replacement fobs for German cars that have the “flip” which is similar to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the necessary equipment to do so.