Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars now use key fobs that can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle. Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break in time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that you carry around in your pockets or purse. If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car. If not, you can find them in 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 set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board. Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out when your keys don't work to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature but can be risky for those who are prone to losing their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having issues, contact your car manufacturer and ask if the chip might be reset. You can also contact a locksmith. You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you can purchase a replacement fob at a price that you are comfortable with. This is typically a less expensive alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and some require specialized equipment to be programmed. Programming Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours or need an upgrade, you might be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogramme it. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors as even one door left open could impact how well the fob functions. To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you'd like 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 an alternative type of key fob or an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that is only done by an authorized dealer. You can save money by hiring an automotive locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the equipment to do the work for a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the job. Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment. Dealerships You may be tempted, when you lose your keys to visit a dealership to have them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other places for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced, such as locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are usually much cheaper than the dealership and could save you lots of money. A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are now common on a variety of vehicles. They can be a useful way to unlock your car, but they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle. The most common type of car key fob is the push-button starter that is attached to the ignition of your vehicle. https://notes.io/w19tN are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, where the metal key is enclosed inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. These are the most sought-after as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical keys. Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay anything to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming the device. You can replace your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you own a traditional, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and can program and cut them for a much lower price than 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. However, it might not be as cheap as you think, especially in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as an automatic locking system or a remote start button. Smart keys are used in the majority of modern vehicles to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code every time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather, in an embedded chip which communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. 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 for these kinds of keys. It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars for less than what the cost you would pay if bought it through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership. Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's wise for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that work before they lose one. If your car also has traditional metal keys you can purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob could need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be costly in the event that you need to make more than one spare, or if the key needs replacing. Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip", which functions in a similar way to the switchblade, are only available from the dealer. This is because these fobs operate on transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the service department of the dealer.