• 목록
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Car Key Fob Replacement

Many cars now use key fobs that lock and unlock doors and start the car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer, who will charge you depending on the make of your car.

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 need to do is replace its battery. These little devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have a lot more going on in them than just buttons that lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a coded sequence of signals based upon how 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 device that spends the majority of its time scurrying around in your purse and pockets they may cease to function as they get older.

If you're lucky, your new-car dealer will have key fob batteries replacement that will work with your car replacement key. If they don't, you can find them in a variety of auto parts stores, and at big-box retailers. You'll typically need a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. To avoid 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 newer fobs have tiny keys inside them that you can pull out in the event that the keys fail to open your door or start the engine. This is a convenient feature, but it could be risky for people who are prone to losing their keys. Some people utilize a wireless remote locking system that is based on an RFID chip embedded in the key fob. If you are having issues with this, you'll need to contact the manufacturer of your car to see whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith if needed.

If you're able to purchase a replacement key fob at an amount you're comfortable with you might be able to program it yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than purchasing a brand new key from a dealer. Be aware that not all aftermarket key fobs are compatible with your car and some require special equipment to be programmed.

Programming

The majority of modern cars are equipped with electronic key fobs which allow you to unlock and start your vehicle remotely. If you lose yours or need an upgrade you may be in a position to program an alternative yourself. Instructions are usually available online. The exact procedure will depend on the model of your car. Owner's guides can also provide detailed programming information. Before you attempt reprogramming your key fob, make sure it has fresh batteries. They are cheap and simple to replace, but an exhausted battery could interfere with the process. Close all doors at once. One open door can affect the function of the fob.

To reprogram a key fob turn off your vehicle and remove the original key from the ignition. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time period, typically 10 to 30 seconds. The car might respond by switching on the lights, turning off the locks, or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob is programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional keys you wish to include in your vehicle's system.

This reprogramming method only works on cars that use the same technology. If your car has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct, it will need special programming. This can only be done by an authorized dealer.

You can save money by using an auto locksmith. A lot of dealerships charge a flat rate for this service. They often have the necessary equipment to accomplish the task at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealership. They may even be able visit you to complete the job.

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

Dealerships

If you lose your car keys, you could be tempted to visit the dealership for an alternative. Dealerships may charge more for this service than other places and may not be the most affordable option. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than the dealership and can save you money.

A car key fob allows you to open and start your car without using a traditional metal keys. It's typically a rectangular or oval piece of plastic with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car, activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs were first popular in the late 90s and a large number of vehicles include them as standard features. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it easy for thieves to steal your vehicle.

The most commonly used car key fob is the push button starter. It is attached to the ignition of your car. They are typically located at an auto parts store or dealership. Switchblade keys, in which the metal key is enclosed within a plastic part, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are sought-after because they permit you to unlock and start your vehicle without the need for a physical key.

Many dealerships inflate the cost of key fobs because they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. Although it's difficult to find a low-cost replacement for a fob you can save money by selecting the correct replacement battery and using an alternative method of reprogramming the device.

You can replace your key at an independent locksmith that is not associated with a specific car manufacturer regardless of whether you have an old-fashioned, metal key or a smart electronic key. A lot of these places carry a large selection of replacement keys, and they can cut and program them for less than the dealers. You can use an online search engine to find an independent locksmith near you.

Locksmiths

If your key fob has been lost, you will need to engage an expert to replace the item. It may not be as inexpensive as you think, especially if your key fob has a smart feature, such as remote start or automatic locking.

Smart keys are found in most modern cars to stop theft. They function by sending a unique security code every when the key is used. These codes aren't saved on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car in order to unlock doors and even start the engine. Because of this additional layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and know-how required to reprogram these keys.

Depending on your car's model and year, you may have the option to buy an entirely new key fob from an hardware store or a locksmith that specialises in automotive locksmithing for less than it would cost through the dealer. However, you'll likely still need to pay an expert to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.

Certain automakers provide 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 to complete the procedure. For that reason, it's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two functioning key fobs prior to experiencing the disappointment of losing one.

If your car has a traditional key shank in addition to the smart key it is possible to make a spare at a hardware or key cutting store for relatively inexpensive, assuming that the metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs that have a transponder component on both the key shank as well as the fob are likely to require professional programming however, and this can add up if you need to have more than one spare or the key is required to be replaced.

Replacement fobs for German cars that have the "flip" which functions in a similar way to a switchblade, are only available from the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs usually use a specific type of transponder that can only be reset and reprogrammed by the manufacturer's dealer service department, which is generally the only manufacturer with the equipment necessary to accomplish this.