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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 requires an appointment with the dealer that charges based on your vehicle's make. But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though as with any other device that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they get older. If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board. Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a great feature but can be risky for people who tend to 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, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith. You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment to program. Programming The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. If sell lose yours or need a new one, you might be in a position to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that it has new batteries. These are cheap and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob. To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10-30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks, switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to add to the system of your vehicle. This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car has different types of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer. You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of the price you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your location to perform the job. If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment. Dealerships If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other locations, and they might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and could save you money. A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your vehicle without using 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 and activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it. The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. They are well-known because they allow 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 customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement for a fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device. If you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith who is independent near you. Locksmiths When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic. The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. 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 and year, you might be able to purchase a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost through a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership. Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' manuals or online. The steps are somewhat difficult, however you may require another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one. If your car has a traditional metal key, you can get a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key was not lost with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare or if the key needs replacing. Those who own German cars, for instance one, with a “flip” function which is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. 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 that has the necessary equipment to accomplish this.