How Do You Explain Car Key Fob Replacement To A Five-Year-Old

Car Key Fob Replacement

A lot of cars today use key fobs, which can 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 depending on the make of the vehicle.

But Consumer Reports reveals some simple techniques to save money. Here's how:

Battery

If your key fob isn't working the first thing you should do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more going on in them than just buttons that unlock and lock your car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly sending out an encoded signal in a unique sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time, just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.

If you're fortunate, car key FOB replacement your dealer will sell batteries for replacement keys that are that are compatible with your vehicle. If they don't, you can find them at many auto parts stores and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery, which is usually around $2-4 American per pack of two. You'll need to remove the old one from your fob before installing the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some newer fobs have an electronic key inside of them that you can remove if the keys fail to open your door or start your engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some people have a wireless remote locking system that relies upon an RFID chip that is embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, it's best to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or call a locksmith if needed.

You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement fob at the price you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and many require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock your vehicle from a distance. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you may be able to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals contain detailed programming information. Make sure your key fob is powered by a new battery before you attempt to reprogram it. They are inexpensive and simple to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. It is also a good idea to close all doors since even one door that is left open could affect how well the fob works.

To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take out the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob in a time frame typically between 10 to 30 seconds. The car could 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 keys you'd like to add to the system of your vehicle.

Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that use the same technology. If your car has different types of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal it will require specialized programming that must be done by an authorized dealer.

Many dealerships offer this service for a flat fee, but you might be able to save money by calling an automotive locksmith instead. They have the equipment to complete the work at a fraction what you would have to pay at the dealership. They may even come to you to do the job.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide a guarantee. Also check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy for your car to determine whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or car key FOB replacement she might even be able to inform you of the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, in the event that you lose your keys to go to a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships can charge more than other places and may not be the most affordable option. There are other options for getting your key fob replaced including locksmiths and hardware stores. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and could save you money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without a traditional metal keys. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic with buttons that let you lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are currently standard on many vehicles. They are a great way to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to the ignition of your car. They are typically found at an auto parts store or dealership. Keys with a switchblade, where the metal key is enclosed in a plastic piece and keyless entry key fobs are also types of car fobs. They are the most popular since they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical keys.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know consumers will pay for anything to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the latest smart keys, you can get a replacement for it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. Many of these locations offer a variety of replacement keys and can cut and program them for much less than the dealers. You can also make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional replace it. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code each time a key is pressed. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to open doors and then start it. Because of this additional layer only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise needed to reprogram these keys.

Based on the model of your car and year, you could have the option to buy the new key fob at an auto repair shop or a locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. You'll still have to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers offer instructions for programming your own fob in their owners' manuals or on the internet. The steps are a bit tricky, though, and you might need another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even perform it at all. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key that you can make a spare at a hardware or key cutting shop for a reasonable price, assuming that the metal key doesn't get lost along 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 can be expensive if you want to make more than one spare or if the key needs replacing.

For those who own German automobiles, for instance those that come with the "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to find replacement car keys cost fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs utilize an electronic transponder that can only be reset or reprogrammed in the dealer service department.