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Car Key Fob Replacement A lot of cars today use key fobs, which can lock and unlock doors and start the car. Typically replacing a standard key 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 you should do is change its battery. These devices that have replaced traditional keys, can do much more than lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs may break down over time, just like any other electronic device that is constantly tossed around in your pockets or purse. If you're lucky your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll need to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob and replace it with the new one. Some modern fobs include a small physical key stored inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys aren't able to open your door or start your engine. While this is a useful feature, it could be a risk for people who have a tendency to lose keys. Others use a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to operate the doors. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need. If you're able to buy a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with it's possible to program the key yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your vehicle and require special equipment to program. Programming Modern cars come with electronic key fobs which allow you to start and unlock the car from a distance. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. The exact process depends on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure that your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the function of the fob. To reprogram a remote key switch off your car and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob for a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks or emitting an audible chime as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your car's system. Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different type of key fob, or has an additional ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be done by an authorized dealer. A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat price, but you might be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They often have the necessary equipment needed to complete the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able be at your location to complete the job. If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good relationship with your mechanic, they might even let you know the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment. Dealerships If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places, and they might not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money. A car key fob lets you to unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alert or open the trunk. Fobs became popular in 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They're a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to steal your car. The most common type of car key fob is the 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. Other types of car key fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without physical key. Many dealers overcharge key fob prices because they know consumers will pay whatever it takes to get their car 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. www.g28carkeys.co.uk can change your key at an independent locksmith who is not associated with a specific manufacturer of cars, whether you have a traditional, metal key or a sophisticated electronic key. A lot of these places offer a variety of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than the 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 is lost, you'll have to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as expensive as you think, especially if your key fob is equipped with an advanced feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic. Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time the button is hit. The codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Due to this extra layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys. Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from a hardware store or locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership. Some automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owner's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require a second key fob in order to complete the procedure. It's wise for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one. If your car has a traditional metal key, you can get an extra key at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder element on both the key shank and the fob will probably need to be professionally programmed however, and this can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or the key needs to be replaced. Those who own German automobiles, for instance one, with a “flip” function that is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. 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 typically the only company that has the tools needed to do so.