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Car Key Fob ReplacementA lot of cars have key fobs to lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with the dealer who will charge depending on the make of the vehicle.However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:BatteryIf your key fob isn't working, the first thing to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that goes to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time as does any other electronic gadget that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse.If you're fortunate your dealer has batteries for replacement keys that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. car key replacement G28CarKeys 'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care in order to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside of them that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start your engine. This is a convenient feature, but it can be dangerous for people who frequently lose their keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.You may be able do the programming yourself if it is possible to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from the dealer. However, be warned that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and require specialized equipment for programming.ProgrammingModern cars come with electronic keys, which let you start and unlock your car from a distance. If you lose yours or need to replace it you might be able to program the replacement yourself. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, ensure that you have new batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. It is recommended to close all doors, as even one door left open could affect how well the fob operates.To reprogram a key fob, switch off your vehicle and take the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button of the new fob for a certain time period typically between 10 and 30 seconds. 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 want to add to the system of your vehicle.This reprogramming method is only applicable only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They might even be able to be at your location to complete the job.Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or car-insurance policy to see whether 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 cost of this service before you make an appointment.DealershipsIf you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain an alternative. However, they usually charge more than other places for this service, and they may not be the most affordable price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much less expensive than the dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you unlock and start your car without the need for the traditional metal key. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a lot of cars have them as standard features. They are a convenient method of opening your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.The most commonly used type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are different types of car fobs. The latter are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay anything to get their vehicle back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device.If you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide range of replacement keys and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your area.LocksmithsIf your key fob has been lost, you will need to find a professional to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.Smart keys are found in the majority of modern vehicles to stop theft. They work by sending a unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle in order to unlock doors and begin it. Due to this additional layer of security, it's only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements to these types of keys.It is possible to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security at a lower cost than you would pay if you bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' guides or online. The steps are somewhat difficult, however you may require an additional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.If your car also has a traditional metal key you can purchase an extra key at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require a professional to program however, which could 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 a "flip", which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs usually use an exclusive transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company that has the tools needed to do so.