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Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock doors and begin your vehicle. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges depending on the make of your vehicle.

However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple tricks to save you money. Here's how:

Battery

If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing you should do is replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, can do a lot more than just lock and unlock your car. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is sent to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any device that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse they may cease to function as they get older.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car key replacement cost dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll need a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. It is necessary to remove the old battery from your fob and install the new one with care to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the newer fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. While this is a great feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip could be reset or an locksmith if you need.

If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at a price you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and that many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs 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 need one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, turn off your vehicle and then remove the original key from its ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time period, typically 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by turning the locks on and off and switching on the lights, or emitting a chime signal to confirm the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you want to add to the 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 has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that is only done by an authorized dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price however, you may be in a position to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the task for only a fraction of what you'd spend at a dealership. They may even be able to travel to your location to do the work.

If you decide to go to the dealership, inquire what they charge and whether they have a warranty on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine if they cover any lost fobs. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know about their pricing for this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, they usually charge more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership, and could save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your vehicle or set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a lot of cars come with them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your cheap car key replacement, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. You can typically find these at the dealership or in an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also 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 the price of key fobs as they know that customers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at an affordable cost. However you can save money by choosing the right battery and reprogramming it in a different method.

You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own traditional metal keys, or a smart, electronic key. These locations offer a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them at a much lower price than dealers. You can use the search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to engage a professional to replace it. It may not be as expensive as you think if your key fob has a smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes each time the button is press. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you may have the option to buy the new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This could require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers provide instructions for do-it-yourself key fob programming online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be tricky and you may require an additional key fob to complete the procedure. This is why it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your cheapest car key replacement keys car; Suggested Reading, also has an old-fashioned metal key it is possible to purchase a spare at the hardware or key cutting store, provided that the key's metal was not lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob are likely to require a professional to program however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.

People with German cars, for instance those that come with a "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. This is because these fobs use a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.