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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars now use key fobs, which allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob requires an appointment with the dealer, which charges according to the vehicle's make. But Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how: Battery The first step to take when your key fob is not working is to change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a distinct sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking in time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your purse or pockets. If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new one. Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. This is a great feature, but it could be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact a locksmith. You may be able do the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much affordable alternative to paying for a replacement key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle, and that most require special equipment to program. Programming Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it, you might be capable of programming an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it's got new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the function of the fob. To reprogram a key fob switch off your vehicle and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a predetermined time period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car may respond by cycling the locks, turning on the lights or chiming to confirm that the fob was 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 available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different and requires specialized programming. This is only available by an authorized dealer. A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee however, you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the work at less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job. Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Check your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment. Dealerships You may be enticed if you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other places and they may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of money. A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a large number of vehicles have 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 common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other kinds of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys. A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. While automotive car key replacement G28 's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device. You can change your key at an independent locksmith who is not affiliated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can search a search engine in order to locate a locksmith that is independent near you. Locksmiths If your key fob is missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob has some sort of smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start. Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys. You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less money than you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership employs. Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's guides or online. These steps can be quite difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one. If your car also has a traditional metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced. For those who have German automobiles, for instance one, with a “flip” function that is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from 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.