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Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge according to the model of the 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 should do is replace its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more to offer than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets they may cease to function as they age.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will offer key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer fobs have a small key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature but can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're experiencing issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact an locksmith.

If you can purchase an extra key fob for a price you're comfortable with you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a less expensive option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are usually equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. You might be able program a new key if you lose yours, or if you require one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and easy to replace, however the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to close all doors because even a door left open could influence how the fob operates.

To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime signal to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your vehicle's system.

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

You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They usually have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost car keys replacement fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, when you lose your keys to visit a dealer to have them replaced. Dealerships might charge more than other places, and they might not provide the best price. There are several other options for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and can save you lots of money.

A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you open and start your car without the need for a traditional key 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 popular in the 1990s and are currently standard on a lot of vehicles. They're a convenient way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most common car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.

Whether you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can replace it with an independent locksmith that's not associated with any specific car manufacturer. A lot of these places have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can also search using a search engine to find a locksmith that is independent in your local area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll need to engage a professional to replace the item. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are utilized in most modern cars to guard against theft. They work by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. The codes are not stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and start it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you might have the option of purchasing a new key replacement car fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost of replacement car key to go through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be somewhat difficult, however and you may need another key fob that is functional to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional metal key, you can get one at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank and the fob will probably require professional programming however, and this can be costly if you have to have more than one spare or if the key needs to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature the "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available at the dealership. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the tools needed to accomplish this.