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Many cars use key fobs that lock and unlock the doors, and begin your car. Typically replacing a standard fob requires an appointment at the dealership and the cost is depending on the make of your vehicle.

Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first step to take in the event that your key fob isn't working is to change its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency at which you press them, they are constantly emitting an encoded signal in a unique sequence that sends to an inside car receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't impervious to damage, however -- like any device that spends most of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse, they can stop working when they age.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will sell batteries for keys compatible with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery which costs from about $2-4 American for a set of two. To avoid damaging the electronic circuit board, you'll have to carefully remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Certain newer fobs come with a small physical key stored inside them that you can remove if keys don't open your door or start the engine. While this is a convenient feature, it could be risky for those with an inclination to lose keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, it's best to contact your car's manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or call a locksmith in the event of need.

If you're able to purchase an additional key fob at an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. However, be warned that not all aftermarket replacement key fobs will work with your car, and that most require specialized equipment for programming.

Programming

Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys which allow you to unlock and start the car remotely. If you lose yours or require an upgrade you might be in a position to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your vehicle. Some owner's guides also contain details on programming. Make sure that your key fob has new batteries before you attempt to program 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 could affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a remote key turn off your car and remove the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button of the new fob in a certain time period generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could 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 fobs that you would like to add to your car's system.

Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has a metal ignition key that is distinct and requires specialized programming. This is only available through a dealer.

A lot of dealerships offer this service for a flat cost however, you may be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd pay in the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the job.

If you decide to go with the dealership, ask them what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Also check your new-car warranty and auto club membership as well as your insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you're in good standing with your mechanic, they may even let you know their pricing for this service prior to scheduling an appointment.

Dealerships

You might be enticed, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealer to get them replaced. However, dealerships typically charge more than other locations for this service, and may not offer the best price. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced, including locksmiths and hardware stores. These stores are usually less expensive than the dealership and could save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using traditional keys made of metal. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the 1990s and a lot of cars 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 steal your car.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition in your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or a dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. They are popular because they let you open and start your car without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of replacement car keys of key fobs since they know that consumers will be willing to pay for any service in order to get their car back. It can be difficult to locate a replacement fob at an affordable price. However you can save cash by purchasing the correct battery and programming it in a different manner.

Whether you have a traditional metal key an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can get a replacement for it with an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and they can program and cut them for a much lower price than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll have to find an expert to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think if your key fob has an advanced feature, like remote start or locking that is automatic.

Smart keys are used in all modern cars to prevent theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time the key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and knowledge required to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model and year, you could have the option of purchasing a new key fob at an hardware store or a locksmith that is specialized in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions on self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be tricky 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 functional key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car is equipped with an old-fashioned key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare 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 on both the key shank and the fob may require programming by a professional. However, this could be costly if you want to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacement.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have a "flip" that is similar 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 reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only company that has the necessary equipment to do this.