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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle. But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is change its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break down over time, just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse. If you're lucky your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, you can locate them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll want 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 remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one. Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be a risk for people who have the tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to see if the chip can be reset or a locksmith if needed. If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and most require special equipment to program. Programming Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, as even one door left open can affect how well the fob functions. To reprogram a key fob switch off your car and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a time frame generally between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your car's system. Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only possible at an authorized dealer. A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They may even come to you to do the job. Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service prior to when you make an appointment. Dealerships If you lose your car keys, you may be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations and may not offer the best deal. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, and can save you money. A car key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional metal key. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle and trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier 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 your car's ignition. These are usually located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key. A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method. You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key, or a smart, electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you. Locksmiths When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional to replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons. here of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is hit. These codes are not stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys. You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would have to pay if you purchased it from a dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership employs. Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' manuals or online. These steps can be difficult and you may need a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one. If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key it is possible to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacing. People who own German cars, for instance, that have the “flip” function that is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. The reason is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is usually the only manufacturer with the necessary equipment to do so.