How To Explain Car Key Fob Replacement To A FiveYearOld

Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars are now equipped with key fobs, which lock and unlock doors and also allow the car to start. Typically, replacing a standard key fob requires an appointment with the dealer that charges depending on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob stops working the first thing to do is change the battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more to offer than just buttons to unlock and lock your vehicle. Depending on the frequency you press them, they are constantly emitting the coded signal in a unique sequence that sends to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs aren't indestructible, though -- like any gadget that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your pockets and purse, they can stop working as they age.
If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will sell key fob batteries replacement that work with your car. If not, they are 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. You'll need to take the old battery from your fob and install the new one carefully to prevent damage to the electronic circuit board.
Certain newer fobs come with tiny keys inside of them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. While this is a great feature, it can be risky for those with the tendency to lose keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car's manufacturer to see whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.
You may be able do the programming yourself if you are able to purchase a replacement key at a price that you are comfortable with. This is usually a cheaper option than paying for a replacement key at the dealership. But, be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket will work with your vehicle and most require specialized equipment to program.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic key fobs that let you unlock and start your vehicle remotely. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you need one. The exact procedure is dependent on the model of your vehicle however, the instructions are usually accessible online. Some owner's manuals also include details on programming. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are inexpensive and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. It is recommended to shut all doors, because even a door left open could impact how well the fob operates.
To reprogram a remote key switch off your vehicle and take off the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob within a set time frame, typically 10-30 minutes. The car could respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime as confirmation that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs you want to add to the system.
Be aware that this reprogramming method only works for cars that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has different types 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 hiring an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat fee for this service. They typically have the equipment to accomplish the task for a fraction of what you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to travel to your home to complete the work.
Ask the dealer about the service will cost and if they provide the possibility of a guarantee. Also, check your new-car warranty, auto club membership or insurance policy on cars to see whether it covers malfunctions or lost fobs due to them. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, he or she may even tell you about the cost of this service before you schedule an appointment.
Dealerships
You might be enticed, when you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. Dealerships may charge more than other places and may not offer the best deal. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are usually much cheaper than a dealership and can save you a significant amount of money.
A car key fob is a piece of technology that lets you unlock and start your car without using a traditional metal key. It's a rectangular or oval piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, trigger an alert or open the trunk. Fobs first became popular in the late 90s and a lot of cars include them as standard features. They're a great method of opening your car, but they can also make it easier for thieves to take it.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, where the key made of metal is encased within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are also kinds of car fobs. They are popular because they let you unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs because they know that customers will pay whatever it takes to return their vehicle. While it's not easy to find a reasonable replacement for a fob, you can save money by selecting the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.
Whether you have a traditional metal key, a push-button starter or one of the latest smart keys, you can change it at an independent locksmith that's not associated with any particular car manufacturer. They have a wide choice of replacement keys and they can cut and program them for a much lower price than dealers. You can even make use of a search engine in order to find a locksmith that is independent in your neighborhood.
Locksmiths
When your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to hire a professional replace it. It might not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob comes with an advanced feature, such as remote start or locking that is automatic.
Modern cars are equipped with smart keys that are designed to prevent theft by sending unique security codes each time a button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and also start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians who have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these kinds of keys.
You may be able to purchase a new keyfob through an establishment like a hardware or locksmith that specializes in automotive security at a lower cost than the cost you would pay if purchased it from a dealer. You'll still have to hire an expert to program your fob. This could require the same equipment as the dealership.
Certain automakers offer instructions for doing-it-yourself fob programming in their user's manuals or on the internet. The steps aren't easy and you may require another key fob in order to complete the process. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.
If key car replacement has traditional metal keys, you can get an extra key at the hardware or key cutting store, as long as the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have transponders on both the key shank as well as the fob may require programming by a professional, however this can be costly if you want to make more than one spare, or if the key requires replacement.
For those with German cars, for example, that have a "flip" function which is similar to a switchblade knife, could only find fob replacements at the dealership. This is because these fobs operate on a transponder which can only be reset or reprogrammed by the service department of the dealer.