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Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires an appointment with the dealer, who will charge you according to the model of your vehicle.

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

Battery

If your key fob stops working the first thing you need to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however like any other piece of consumer technology that spends most of its time scurrying around in your purses and pockets, they can stop working as they get older.

If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which ranges from $2-4 American for a set of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside them that you can pull out in the event that keys don't open your door or start the engine. This is a great feature, but it can be dangerous for people who are prone to losing their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate the doors. If you're having issues with your car, contact the manufacturer and ask if the chip could be reset. You can also call an expert locksmith.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than buying a replacement car keys price key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and that many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which let you start and unlock the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or require to replace it you may be able to program an alternative yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually available online. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door can affect the function 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 of the new fob for a time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this process for any additional fobs you want to add to the system.

This reprogramming technique only works on cars that use the exact same technology. If your vehicle has an alternative type of key fob or has an additional ignition key made of metal It will require special programming that is only done by a dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to come to your home to complete the work.

Ask the dealer what the service will cost and if they offer the possibility of a guarantee. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you have a good 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

If you've lost your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership to get a replacement. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and may not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These stores are typically cheaper than the dealership and could save you a lot of money.

A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the 1990s, and many vehicles include them as standard features. They can be a convenient method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to rob your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob model is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge prices for key fobs since they know consumers will pay anything to get their car back. It's not always easy to locate a replacement fob at a reasonable price. However you can save money by using the right battery and reprogramming it in a different manner.

Whether you have a traditional metal key a push-button starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that's not associated with any specific cheapest car key replacement manufacturer. Many of these locations carry a large selection of replacement key for car cost keys and can cut and program them for much cheaper than the dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as costly as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Most modern cars have smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every time a button is press. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but 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 needed 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 an hardware store or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost to go through a dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay a professional to program the fob, which could require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to speed up the process or even complete it all. It's a good idea for both tenants and owners to have two key fobs that work before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional key shank addition to a smart key it is possible to purchase a spare key at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key isn't lost as is the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob may require a professional to program however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Those with German automobiles, for instance one, with a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.