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Car Key Fob ReplacementA lot of cars have key fobs that lock and unlock the doors and allow you to start your car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment at the dealership and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle.However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:BatteryIf your key fob ceases to work, the first thing to do is change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly sending out the coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break in time just like any other electronic device that you carry around in your purse or pockets.If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have batteries for keys that work with your vehicle. If not, you can locate them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with the new one.Certain newer fobs come with an electronic key inside that you can remove if keys aren't able to open your door or start the engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine if the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket can be used with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment for programming.ProgrammingThe majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You might be able create a new key in case you lose yours, or if you need one. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and simple to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors in one open door can affect the function of the fob.To reprogram a remote, turn off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob for a time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs that you wish to add to your car's system.This reprogramming method is only applicable on vehicles that utilize the exact same technology. If your car has an alternative key fob or has a metal ignition key that is separate, it will need specialized programming. This is only possible at an authorized dealer.You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. car key replacement emergency charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to do the work for a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to your location to do the job.If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know about their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.DealershipsYou may be enticed if you lose your keys to visit a dealership to have them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than dealerships, 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 an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, but they also make it easier for thieves to take your vehicle.The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are typically found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without physical key.A lot of dealerships overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. It can be difficult to find a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any particular car manufacturer. They offer a broad choice of replacement keys and they can program and cut them for less than dealers. You can use an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.LocksmithsIf your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is pressed. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and even start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or 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 through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in security for cars for less than what the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll likely still have to hire an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership employs.Some automakers offer instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's guides. The steps are a bit tricky, though and you may need an additional key fob to expedite the process or even perform it at all. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.If your car has a traditional key shank addition to the smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive in the event that the metal key doesn't get lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could require programming by a professional. However, this can be expensive in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacing.Replacement fobs for German automobiles that feature a "flip" that is similar in function to a switchblade, can only be available through the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.