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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars are now equipped with 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, which charges based on your vehicle's make. Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery The first thing to do when the key fob you have is not working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a specific sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though — like any gadget that spends most of its time in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they age. If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board. Some of the latest fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call a locksmith. If you can purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price you might be able to program it yourself. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program. Programming Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you need one. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, be sure it's got new batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, as even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob operates. To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off or switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system. Be aware that this method of reprogramming is only available for vehicles which use the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need specific programming. This is only possible through an authorized dealer. You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the work. If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment. Dealerships If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and they may not offer the best deal. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These stores are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money. A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your car without the need for a traditional metal key. It's typically 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 lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a convenient method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it. The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your vehicle. They are typically found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key. A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device. Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can search a search engine in order to find an independent locksmith near you. Locksmiths When your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic. Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Because of My Site and dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys. You might be able to purchase a new keyfob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than you would pay if you went through the dealer. You'll still have to hire 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 online or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob to complete the procedure. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs before experiencing the disappointment of losing one. If your car has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the key was not lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional, however this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement. Those who have German automobiles, for instance, that have the “flip” function that is similar to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find fob replacements at the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.