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Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break into pieces over time, just like any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have replacement key fobs for cars key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they are available at auto parts stores or even 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. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with the new one.

Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside of them that you can pull out if the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a useful feature but can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the car remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade you might be capable of programming a replacement yourself. Instructions are typically 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, be sure you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors, as even one door that is left open could impact how well the fob operates.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time frame, typically 10-30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or chiming to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that is only performed by a dealer.

You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They typically have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to come to your home to complete the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to go to a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and may not offer the best deal. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now common on many automobiles. They're a great method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most commonly used type of car key cover replacement key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Other kinds of car key replacements near me key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical keys.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.

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

Certain automakers provide instructions for self-programming fobs in their owners' guides or online. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key replacement car shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, however this could be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.

People who own German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function, which is akin to a switchblade knife, could only get replacement fobs from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.