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Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. 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 change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other device that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they get older.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old one from your fob before installing the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a much cheaper alternative than buying an alternative key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car via the internet. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you might be capable of programming a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model however instructions are typically available online. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob within a certain time period, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime as a confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is different from the other, it will require special programming. This is only possible by the dealer.

Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price however, you may be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They typically have the equipment needed to complete the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what their charges are and whether they have an assurance on the work. Verify your warranty, 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 about their pricing for this service prior to making an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to have them replaced. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places, and they might not offer the best deal. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace 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 allows you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a large number of vehicles include them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start that is attached to your car key replacement online's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. The latter are most popular because they permit you to unlock and start your car without 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. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob for an affordable cost. However you can save money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different way.

You can change your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a particular car manufacturer, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to hire a professional replace it. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.

The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. The codes are not stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians that have the tools and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security for less than what you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert 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 somewhat difficult, however you may require a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for a relatively low cost in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob may require professional programming however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

Those who own German cars, for instance one, with the "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason for this is that the fobs are typically a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company with the equipment necessary to do this.