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Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires a visit to the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.

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 are replacing traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however as with any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a set 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.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you're having issues getting your car manufacturer's attention and inquire if the chip can be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

If you can purchase a replacement keys car key fob at an affordable price, you may be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start the car remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, because even a door that is left open could impact how well the fob operates.

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 in the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to include in your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is distinct from the other, it will require specialized programming. This is only available through the dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however you may be better off making contact with an automotive locksmith. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire how much they charge and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine if it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, he might even inform you of the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. There are several alternatives for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and could save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger 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're a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most common car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can even search using a search engine to find a locksmith who is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. But that might not be as expensive as you think, particularly if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from an establishment like a hardware or locksmith near me car key replacement that specializes in automotive security for less money than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still require a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their user's manuals or on the internet. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even perform it at all. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functional key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require professional programming however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" which is similar to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.