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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars now use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership, which charges according to the vehicle's make. But Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how: Battery If your key fob ceases to work, the first thing to do is change the battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they're constantly sending out the coded signal in a distinct sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however like any other device that spends most of its time in your pockets and purse they are prone to break when they age. If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement keys fob batteries compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob before installing the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board. Certain of the more recent 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 convenient feature, but it could be risky for those who tend to lose their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset or an locksmith if you need. If you're able to purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an additional key from the dealership. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and that many require special equipment to be programmed. Programming Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key in case you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. car key replacements depends on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are affordable and easy to replace. However, an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the function of the fob. To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame typically between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching 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 add to your vehicle's system. Be aware that this reprogramming method is only applicable to cars which use the same technology. If your vehicle has different types of key fob or an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by an authorized dealer. Many dealerships provide this service for a flat price however, you may be in a position to save money by contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your location to perform the job. If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them how much they charge and if they offer an assurance on the work. Examine your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she might even be able to inform you of the costs of this service before you schedule an appointment. Dealerships You might be enticed, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more for this service than other locations, and they might not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you lots of money. A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it. The most common type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular as they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key. Many dealerships inflate key fob prices because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to get their vehicle back. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the correct battery and reprogramming it in a different manner. If you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the more modern smart keys, you can replace it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can search an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you. Locksmiths If your key fob is lost, you will need to engage a professional to replace the item. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking. Most modern cars have smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each when a button is hit. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only licensed locksmiths or car dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys. Based on the model and year, you could have the option of purchasing the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. However, key replacement car 'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment the dealership uses. Some automakers offer instructions for self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps aren't easy and you may need an additional key fob to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's recommended for both owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one. If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key it is possible to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional. However, this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing. Replacement fobs for German cars that have the “flip” that 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 reset by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the tools needed to do so.