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3 Common Causes For Why Your Car Key Fob Replacement Isn't Working (And How To Fix It) Car Key Fob Replacement Many cars now use key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Typically, replacing a standard fob will require an appointment with the dealer and the cost is according to the vehicle's make. Consumer Reports has 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, which have replaced traditional keys, do a lot more than just lock and unlock the car. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs can break in time just like any other electronic gadget that you carry around in your purse or pockets. If you're lucky, your new car dealer will have replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and even at 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. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob and install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board. Some modern fobs include an electronic key inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for those with a tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based upon an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you have trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call an locksmith if you need. You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to buy a replacement fob for the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than buying a new key from a dealer. But, be aware that not all replacement keys from the aftermarket will work with your car and most require specialized equipment for programming. Programming The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that allow you to unlock and start your car remotely. If you lose yours or require to replace it you may be able to program the replacement yourself. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however instructions are typically accessible online. Owner's guides can also provide details on programming. Make sure that your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to program it. These are cheap and easy to replace, however an exhausted battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could affect the functioning of the fob. To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and take the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car may respond by turning the locks on and off or turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob was programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you want to include in your vehicle's system. Be aware that this reprogramming technique only works for cars which use the same technology. If your car uses a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need specific programming. This is only possible through the dealer. You can save money by hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They often have the necessary equipment to do the job for a fraction of the price you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able to your home to complete the job. If you decide to go to the dealership, ask them what their charges are and whether they have a warranty on the work. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty or auto club membership, or insurance policy on cars to see if it covers any 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 might be tempted to go to the dealership for a replacement. But dealerships often cost more than other locations for this service, and may not be the most affordable price. There are alternatives to get your key fob repaired, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money. A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the '90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They are a great method to unlock your car, however they also make it easier for thieves to rob your vehicle. The most popular car key fob model is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They can be found in an auto parts store or a dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which house the metal key inside a plastic cylinder, and keyless entry fobs. The latter are most popular since they allow you to open and start your car without a physical keys. A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming the device. If you own a traditional metal key a push-button starter or one of the newer smart keys, you can change it at a locksmith that isn't affiliated with any particular car manufacturer. Many of these locations have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can even use a search engine to locate an independent locksmith in your neighborhood. Locksmiths If your key fob goes missing, you'll most likely have to pay a professional to replace it. But replacement car key cost may not be as cheap as you think, particularly in the event that the key fob comes with an intelligent feature such as the automatic locking feature or remote start buttons. The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes each 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 in order to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the tools and knowledge to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys. You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. But, you'll most likely need to pay an expert to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses. Certain automakers offer instructions on do-it-yourself key fob programming on the internet or in their owner's manuals. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process, or even complete it all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before they experience the frustration of losing one. If your car has a traditional key shank addition to a smart key that you can purchase a spare key at a key or hardware cutting store for a relatively low cost, assuming that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank and the fob will probably require a professional to program, however, which can increase the cost if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced. Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, can only be available from the dealer. This is because these fobs utilize a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed at the dealer service department.