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Car Key Fob replacement key fob for car

Many cars now use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working, the first thing you should do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time as does any other electronic device that you carry around in your pockets or purse.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in 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 a locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive option than buying a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or need to replace it you may be capable of programming the replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your car however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, because even a door left open can affect how well the fob functions.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period, usually between 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to the system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles that use the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or 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 using an automotive locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know the cost of this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other places and they may not offer the best deal. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and programmers unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on many vehicles. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition in 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 programmers keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs as they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't affiliated with any specific car manufacturer. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can use a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to find a professional to replace the item. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.

It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip", which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the service department of the dealer.