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Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer that charges based on your vehicle's make.

Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first thing to do if your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is sent to a receiver inside the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse, they can stop working as they get older.

If you're fortunate your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside of them that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an expert locksmith.

If you're able to buy an extra key fob for an affordable price it's possible to program it yourself. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car and most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your car remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. The exact process depends on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need special programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They usually have the equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even visit you to complete the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have an assurance. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even inform you of their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys, to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places, and they might not provide the best price. There are alternatives for getting your key fob repaired, including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.

A car key fob is a piece 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 allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most popular because they let you open and start your car without the need for a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular auto manufacturer. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can also search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you will need to find a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with a smart feature, like automatic locking or remote car key replacement start.

Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the cheap car keys replacement to open doors and start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how needed to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you could be able to purchase a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership utilizes.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the process. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key, you'll be able to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive, 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, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars with the "flip" that is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company with the equipment necessary to do this.