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Car Key Fob Replacement Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of the vehicle. But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how: Battery The first step to take in the event that your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break in time just like any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets. If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell batteries for keys that work with your car. 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 one from your fob and install the new one carefully to ensure that there is no damage to the electronic circuit board. Some modern fobs include tiny keys inside them that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith. You could be able to complete the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and require specialized equipment to program. Programming Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it's got new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob. To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system. This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is separate, it will need special programming. This is only possible by the dealer. A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the work. Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment. Dealerships You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money. A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's usually a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are now common on a variety of automobiles. They can be a convenient way to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to take your vehicle. The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys. A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device. Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic 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. They have a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them at less than dealers. You can also use a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood. Locksmiths When your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start button. Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and then start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys. Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option to buy the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership. Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' guides or online. These steps can be a bit tricky, though and you may need a second functional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. For hyperlink , it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the frustration of losing one. If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank addition to a smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced. People with German automobiles, for instance, that have a “flip” function that is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company that has the necessary equipment to do so.