9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Car Key Fob Replacement > 자유게시판

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many vehicles use key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors and start your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge according to the model of the vehicle.

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

Battery

The first thing you should do if the key fob you have is not working is to replace the battery. These little devices that have taken the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your car key fob replacement. Depending on the frequency you press them, they're constantly emitting the coded signal in a specific sequence that goes to the car's receiver to either lock or unlock it. Fobs can break into pieces over time as does any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly tossed around in your purse or pockets.

If you're lucky, your new car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries that will work with your vehicle. If not, they're available at auto parts stores, or 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 battery from your fob, and then install the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.

Some of the latest fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out in the event that your keys aren't working to open the door or start the car. This is a convenient feature, but it can be risky for people who tend to lose their keys. Others utilize a wireless remote-locking system that relies on an RFID chip inside the key fob to open the doors. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip could be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at an affordable price you might be able to program the key yourself. This is usually a affordable alternative to paying for an alternative key at the dealership. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your vehicle and some require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

Modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs, which allow you to start and unlock the vehicle via the internet. You might be able create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure is contingent on the model of your car. Some owner's guides also contain specific programming instructions. Make sure your key fob is equipped with new batteries before you attempt to program it. They are affordable and easy to replace, but an over-charged battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors as one open door could compromise the functioning of the fob.

To reprogram a remote, switch off your car and take out the ignition key that was originally used. Press the lock button on the new fob in the same time frame, usually between 10 and 30 seconds. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this process for any additional keys you wish to add to the system of your vehicle.

This reprogramming technique only works on vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your car has a different type of key fob or has an ignition key made of metal, it will require specialized programming that can only be performed by a dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They usually have the equipment to do the job at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They might even be able to visit you to complete the work.

If you choose to go with the dealership, inquire what they charge and if they offer a guarantee on the work. Check your warranty, auto club membership, or insurance policy to determine whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a great working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment.

Dealerships

You may be enticed in the event that you lose your keys to visit a dealership to get them replaced. But dealerships often charge more than other places for this service, and they might not provide the best price. Hardware stores and locksmiths are two other options to replace your key fob. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and can save you money.

A car key button replacement key fob is a piece technology that allows you to unlock and start your vehicle without having to use the traditional metal key. It's usually an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set off an alarm or open the trunk. Fobs were first introduced in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles come with 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 commonly used car key fob type is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They are usually available at the dealership or an auto parts store. Keys with a switchblade, where the key made of metal is encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are different kinds of car fobs. They are well-known because they allow you to unlock and start your car without a physical key.

A lot of dealerships overcharge the price of key fobs since they know that consumers will pay for any service needed to get their car back. While it's not easy to find a cheap replacement fob, you can save money by choosing the right replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming your device.

You can change your key with an independent locksmith that is not affiliated with a specific manufacturer of cars regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. They have a wide selection of replacement keys, and are able to cut and program them at cheaper than dealers. You can use an online search engine to locate a locksmith that is independent near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob goes missing, you'll probably have to hire a professional to replace it. But that might not be as cheap as you think, especially if the key fob includes an intelligent feature such as an automatic locking system or remote start buttons.

Smart keys are used in most modern cars to guard against theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes aren't stored on the fob itself, but rather in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to open doors and start the engine. Because of this extra layer of security, it's usually only locksmiths who are licensed or dealership technicians that have the equipment and know-how to reprogram replacements for these types of keys.

You may be able to purchase a new keyfob from a locksmith or hardware store that specializes in security for cars at a lower cost of replacement car keys than you would pay if you purchased it from a dealer. You'll still need to hire a professional to program your fob. This may require the same equipment that the dealership uses.

Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's manuals. These steps can be a bit tricky, though you may require another key fob that is functional to expedite the process or even perform it at all. This is why it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs before experiencing the anxiety of losing one.

If your car also has traditional metal keys it is possible to purchase a spare at an hardware or key cutting store, provided that the metal key wasn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder on both the key shank and the fob could 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.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" that is similar in function to the switchblade, are only available through the dealer. The reason for this is that these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and programmed by the dealer's service department, which is typically the only company that has the equipment necessary to do so.