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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 an appointment with the dealer and the cost is based on your vehicle's make.

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

Battery

If your key fob isn't working, the first thing you need to do is change its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break down over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.

If you're fortunate the dealer you go to will sell batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery usually about $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it can be a risk for people who have an inclination to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to see if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.

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 cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours, or require a new one you may be in a position to program a replacement yourself. The exact procedure will depend on your vehicle model however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, because even a door left open can influence how the fob functions.

To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car may respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming technique only works only on vehicles that have 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 must be done by a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they provide an assurance. Also, check your new-car warranty or 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, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get an alternative. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key cover replacement key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without having to use the traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oblong piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal it.

The most commonly used type of car key fob is the push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. They can be found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, that house the 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 physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for a reasonable price. However you can save money by choosing the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

If you own a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for cheaper than the dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If 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 in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or remote start button.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code every time the key replacements for cars is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only certified locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in car security for less than what you would have to pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still require a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.

Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' guides or online. The steps aren't easy and you may require another 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 has a traditional key shank in addition to a smart key that you can make a spare at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price in the event that the metal key isn't lost car keys replacement together with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to need to be professionally programmed, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.

For those with German cars, for instance, that have a "flip" function which is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.