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Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars now use key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and allow you to start your car. Replacing a standard key fob normally requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge you according to the model of the vehicle. 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 need to do is change the battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This unique signal is then sent to a receiver inside the car, which locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however — like any gadget that spends the majority of its time in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they age. If you're fortunate, your dealer will sell replacement batteries for keys fobs that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the old battery from your key fob before replacing it with a new one. Certain of the more recent fobs have 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 useful feature, it could be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact the manufacturer of your car to determine whether the chip can be reset or a locksmith in the event of need. You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for 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 aftermarket key fobs will work with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed. Programming Modern cars come with electronic key fobs that allow you to start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. If you lose yours, or require an upgrade, you might be able to program a replacement yourself. The exact process depends on the model of your car however instructions are typically available online. Some owner's manuals also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to reprogram it. They are cheap and easy to replace but the battery that is exhausted could cause problems with the process. It is also a good idea to shut all doors, since even one door left open can impact how well the fob operates. To reprogram a remote key, switch off your vehicle and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, usually about 10 to 30 seconds. car replacement key might respond by turning on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime signal as an indication 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 on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specific programming. This is only possible by the dealer. Many dealerships provide this service for a flat cost, but you might be better off contacting an automotive locksmith instead. They usually have the equipment to do the job for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the job. If you choose to go with the dealership, ask them how much they charge and whether they have an assurance on the work. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they cover lost fobs. If you're in good contact with your mechanic, they might even inform you of the cost of this service prior to scheduling an appointment. Dealerships If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative. Dealerships might charge more than other places and they may not offer the best deal. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options for replacing your key fob. These are typically cheaper than a dealership and can save you a lot of money. A car key fob is a piece of technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without having to use a traditional key made of metal. It's an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They are a convenient way to open your car but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it. The most commonly used type of car key fob is the one with a push-button start, which is affixed to the ignition of your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other types of car key fobs include switchesblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry fobs. They are the most popular as they allow you to open and start your car without a physical keys. Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by choosing the correct replacement battery and employing a different method of reprogramming your device. If you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. These locations offer a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them at less than dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith who is independent in your neighborhood. Locksmiths If your key fob has been lost, you'll have to engage a professional to replace the item. But it may not be as expensive as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as the automatic locking feature or a remote start button. Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to prevent theft. They work by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. The codes are not stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and start it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys. Depending on your car's model and year, you may 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 through the dealer. You'll still need to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment as the dealership. Certain automakers provide instructions for programming your own fob in their user's guides or online. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need an additional key fob to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It's a good idea for both owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one. If your car has a traditional metal key you can purchase one at a key cutting or hardware store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob may need to be programmed by a professional. However, this could 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 is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason is that the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only manufacturer with the tools needed to accomplish this.