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Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges according to the vehicle's make.

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

Battery

The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver inside the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break into pieces over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and at 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 prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some newer fobs have tiny keys inside that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having trouble with your car, contact the manufacturer and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with, you may be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your vehicle. Owner's guides can also provide specific programming instructions. Before you try reprogramming your key fob, be sure it's got fresh batteries. They are affordable and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door left open can influence how the fob functions.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car might respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however you may be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to do the work for only a fraction of what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to do the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also check your new-car key replacement service warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. Dealerships might charge more for this service than other places, and they might not be the most affordable option. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, 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 key made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now standard on a variety of automobiles. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car key replacement cost.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to open and start your mobile car key replacement without a physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for anything to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular auto manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. However, it might not be as expensive as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or a remote start button.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob itself but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Based on the model and year, you may have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming fobs in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even complete it all. It's wise 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 purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob may need to be professionally programmed however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.

People with German automobiles, for instance one, with a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.