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Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership that charges based on your vehicle's make.

Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first step to take when your key fob is not working is to replace its battery. These devices, which have replaced traditional keys, do more than unlock and lock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that is sent to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs won't last forever, however -- like any device that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your purses and pockets they may cease to function when they age.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will sell batteries for keys that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery, which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll have to carefully remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.

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

If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require special equipment to program.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade, you might be able to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are generally available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button of the new fob in a time frame typically between 10 to 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 procedure for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob or a separate metal ignition key it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be better off calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the work at only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able to your home to complete the job.

If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them what their charges are and whether they have a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see if it covers any lost fobs or malfunctions related to them. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership for an alternative. auto key replacement might charge more for this service than other locations and they may not be the most affordable option. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and could save you a lot of money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a variety of vehicles. They're a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most popular type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without the need for a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge key fob prices because they know consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However, you can save some cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.

Whether you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can even search using a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to find a professional to replace the item. But that might not be as costly as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button.

Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They function by sending an unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob itself, but rather 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 licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge 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 car security for less money than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still require an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional key shank addition to a smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a key or hardware cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob might require programming by a professional, however this can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.

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