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Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and start your vehicle. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge based on the make of the vehicle.

However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first thing to do if your key fob is not working is to replace the battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, can do more than lock and unlock your car. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting an encoded signal in a unique sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking into pieces over time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost replacement car key between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.

Some newer fobs have a small physical key stored inside that you can pull out if keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature but can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you are having trouble getting your car manufacturer's attention and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

You might be able to do the programming yourself if it is possible to purchase a replacement key at the price you are comfortable with. This is typically a much cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement car keys key fobs can be used with your vehicle and require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars keys replacement are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car from a distance. If you lose yours or require an upgrade you may be in a position to program an alternative yourself. The exact process depends on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors in one open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, turn 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 could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you wish to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses different types of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key, it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships provide 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 tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they have a guarantee. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they might even inform you of their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of automobiles. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to take your vehicle.

The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. There are many locksmiths that have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than dealers. You can search the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to find an expert to replace the item. But it may not be as costly as you think, particularly when the key fob has an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge needed to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you may be able to purchase an entirely new car key replacement key fob from an auto repair shop or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through a dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment the dealership uses.

Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' manuals or online. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob to complete the procedure. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car also has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional. However, this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason is that these fobs usually use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company that has the necessary equipment to do so.