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

Car Key Fob Replacement

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

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

Battery

The first thing you should do in the event that the key fob you have is not working is to replace its battery. These devices are replacing traditional keys, do a lot more than just unlock and lock the car. Depending on how often you press them, they're constantly emitting a coded signal in a distinct sequence that is sent to a receiver inside the car to either lock or unlock it. Fobs may break into pieces over time as does any other electronic gadget that is constantly jostled around in your purse or pockets.

If you're fortunate your dealer has replacement batteries for keys fobs that are compatible with your vehicle. If not, you can find them at many auto parts stores and even at big-box retailers. You'll usually want a CR2032 button cell battery that can cost between $2 and $4 American for a set of two. It is necessary to remove the old one from your fob, and then install the new one with care in order to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.

Certain of the more recent fobs come with a small key that can be pulled out when your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. While this is a convenient feature, it can be risky for people with the tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob to operate 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 contact a locksmith in the event of need.

You could be able to complete the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement car keys with chips fob at an amount you are comfortable with. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your car and require specialized equipment to program.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You may be able to program a new key if you lose yours, or if you need one. Instructions are usually available on the internet. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure you have new batteries. 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 close all doors, because even a door left open can impact how well the fob functions.

To reprogram a remote, switch off your vehicle and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car might respond by turning the locks on and off, turning on the lights or emitting a chime to confirm that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you want to add to your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works only on vehicles that have the exact same technology. If your car uses an alternative key fob or has an ignition key that is different from the other, it will require specific programming. This is only available by a dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They have the tools to complete the work at a fraction what you would spend at a dealership. They may even be able come to you to do the work.

Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they offer a guarantee. Also, make sure to check your new car warranty, auto club membership or car-insurance policy to see whether it covers any malfunctions or lost fobs that are related to them. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be tempted, if you lose your keys, to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other locations and they may not be the most affordable option. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to unlock and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the '90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a convenient method of opening your vehicle, but they could also make it easier for thieves to steal your car.

The most common car key fob is the push button starter. It is connected to your car's ignition. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car key fobs include switchblade keys that house the key inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. These are the most well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge prices for key fobs since they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a reasonable replacement fob, you can save money by locating the correct replacement battery and utilizing a different method of reprogramming your device.

You can exchange your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you own an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide range of replacement keys and are able to cut and program them for less than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your area.

Locksmiths

If your key fob is lost, you'll need to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as costly as you think if your key fob is equipped with some sort of smart feature, like remote start or automatic locking.

Modern cars are equipped with smart keys designed to guard against theft by sending unique security codes every when 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 know-how required to reprogram these keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob at a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if went through the dealer. However, you'll probably need to pay a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Certain automakers provide instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their owners' manuals or online. The steps are quite difficult, however and you may need a second functional key fob to expedite the process or even to complete it all. It is advisable for both the owners and tenants to have two key fobs that function before they lose one.

If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to get a spare made at a hardware or car key FOB replacement key cutting shop for a reasonable price and assuming that the original metal key doesn't get lost together with the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, however this can be expensive when you need to create more than one spare, or if your key requires replacing.

Those who own German cars, for example one, with the "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife might only be able to find replacement fobs at the dealership. This is because these fobs use transponders that can only be reset or reprogrammed by the dealer service department.