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Car Key Fob Replacement A lot of cars today use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you depending on the make of your car. Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob isn't working, the first thing you should do is change the battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly sending out a coded signal in a unique sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however as with any other gadget that spends most of its time in your purse and pockets they are prone to break when they age. If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries that will work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one. Some of the latest fobs come with a small 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 it can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an locksmith. You might be able to do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. However, be warned that auto key replacement from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming. Programming Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock the car via the internet. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. The exact process depends on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are cheap and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the function of the fob. To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by cycling the locks and turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system. Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars that utilize the same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specialized programming. This is only available by the dealer. Many dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. you could look here may even be able to travel to your home to complete the job. If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the cost of this service prior to when you schedule an appointment. Dealerships If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to get an alternative. you could look here can charge more for this service than other places and may not be the most affordable option. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you a lot of money. A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to steal 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 kinds of car keys fobs include switchesblade keys, that house the key inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical key. A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method. You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and they can cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you. Locksmiths If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace it. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob has an advanced feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic. Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes are not stored on the fob itself but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys. You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less than what the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses. Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. 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. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one. If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to its smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional, however this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key requires replacement. Those who have German automobiles, for instance, that have a “flip” function which is akin to a switchblade knife, could only find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.