How Do I Explain Car Key Fob Replacement To A 5-Year-Old

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars are now equipped with key fobs that allow doors to be locked and unlocked and start the car. Replacing the standard key fob typically requires an appointment with a dealer who will charge depending on the make of your car.

However, Consumer Reports reveals some simple ways to save money. Here's how:

Battery

The first step to take if your key fob isn't working is to change the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based on many times you press them. This unique signal is transmitted to a receiver within the car, which then locks or unlocks it. Fobs won't last forever, however like any other piece of consumer technology that spends the majority of its life jostling around in your pockets and purse they are prone to break as they get older.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell replacement key fob batteries compatible with your car. If not, you can find them at a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll want a CR2032 battery that is typically around $2-4 American per pack of two. To prevent damaging the electronic circuit board you'll need to remove the battery that was on your key fob before replacing it with a new one.

Some of the newer 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 great feature, it could be risky for people with a tendency to lose keys. Some use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip in the key fob in order to operate the doors. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip could be reset or a locksmith if needed.

If you can purchase an extra key fob for an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper alternative than purchasing a new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and many require specialized equipment to be programmed.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start the vehicle remotely. If you lose yours, or require to replace it you may be able to program a replacement yourself. Instructions are typically available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain detailed programming information. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, make sure it has new batteries. They are inexpensive and easy to replace but an over-charged battery can interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door could compromise the functionality of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob, switch off your car and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame generally between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal confirmation that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you'd like to add to your vehicle's system.

Be aware that this method of reprogramming only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle uses a different type of key fob, or has a separate metal ignition key It will require special programming that must be performed by a dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you'd pay at the dealership. They may even be at your location to complete the work.

Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Examine your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to determine whether they cover lost fobs. If you've established a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

If you've lost your car keys, you might be tempted to visit the dealership to obtain a replacement. Dealerships might charge more than other locations and may not be the most affordable option. There are several alternatives to get your key fob replaced including hardware stores and locksmiths. These locations are typically less expensive than the dealership, and can save you money.

A car key fob is a piece technology that lets you open and start your vehicle without the need for a traditional metal key. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the '90s and a large number of vehicles come with them as standard features. They're a great way to open your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.

The most commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. These are usually found in an auto parts store or dealership. Other kinds of car keys fobs include switchblade keys, which contain the key made of metal inside a plastic cylinder and keyless entry fobs. These are the most sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without a physical key.

Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob you can save money by locating the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

If you have an old-fashioned metal key, a push-button starter, or one of the more modern smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that isn't associated with any particular auto manufacturer. They have a wide choice of  replacement keys  and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with some sort of smart feature, such as automatic locking or remote start.

Smart keys are utilized in all modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending an unique security code each when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the vehicle to unlock doors and begin it. Because of this additional layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you could have the option to buy a new key fob at a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in automotive locksmithing for less than what it would cost to go through a dealer. But, you'll most likely have to hire a professional to program the fob, which might require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers provide instructions for doing the programming yourself for key fobs on their websites or in their owner's guides. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. It is advisable for both the tenants and owners to have two key fobs working before they lose one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase an extra key at a key cutting or hardware store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost in the fob. Fobs with transponders on both the key shank and the fob might need to be programmed by a professional, but this can be costly when you need to create more than one spare or if the key requires replacing.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which is similar in function to a switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is because the fobs are typically a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is usually the only company with the tools needed to accomplish this.