15 Gifts For The Mini Car Key Cover Lover In Your Life
Mini Replacement Key Fob
Modern key fobs are far more convenient than the traditional mechanical backup key. They let car owners lock their car and start it by pressing a button.
However, these devices wear out with time and replacements can be costly, according to Consumer Reports automotive analyst Mel Yu. Dealerships charge between $50 and $100 to replace fobs, and for programming them into your vehicle.
How to replace a fob
Most cars have key fobs that let you open doors and start engines. These devices are a convenient addition to our daily lives, but they can be costly to replace if they fail. Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs aren't difficult or complex and can usually be fixed by simply replacing the battery. This simple task can save you from having to visit a mini car keys repair shop or dealership.
If changing the batteries does not work, try reprogramming you remote. Fobs are jostled around a lot, so buttons can get misaligned and prevent the device from working properly. A professional might also be able to retrain the fob to detect new signals.
Certain car models require a specific code to unlock the vehicle and then start the motor. These codes are usually given only to licensed dealers and locksmiths with the equipment to program the fobs. The cost for programming these keys is around $200, which includes the cost of an additional mechanical backup key.
Consumer Reports suggests that you can save money by purchasing a new key fob online or at an auto parts shop in your neighborhood. These fobs need to be programmed for your vehicle. You can have this done by a locksmith dealer, but you'll require proof of ownership. You can also determine whether your warranty or insurance covers the cost of replacing a fob.
Fobs with an engraved key
Some fobs include a key that is stored inside, whereas others just have buttons on the outside that allows you to open the doors. If you want to replace the fob with a traditional key, you'll have to go to an automotive locksmith to have it programmed to work with your vehicle.
Key fobs can perform various tricks such as summoning your car to help you locate it when parked in an unfriendly spot. They can also be used to secure your windows, set off an alarm, and even open the boot. Fobs come in a variety of shapes and sizes from basic rectangles to round models.
Consumer Reports explains that fobs can cost up to $400, and even cost more if you would like to have them installed in your vehicle. If you're not able to spend that amount be sure to check with your vehicle's insurance or warranty to see if it covers the cost.
If your fob's not working correctly, you might be saving money by replacing the battery yourself. Most fob batteries are $10 or less and can be purchased at hardware stores, big-box retailers or online. You can either follow the steps in your manual or watch YouTube videos to learn more about it. After that, test your new battery to confirm that it's functioning. If not, you'll need visit a dealership or licensed locksmith to program the key fob to your vehicle.
Fobs with a Remote
Modern electronic key fobs provide convenience and efficiency over traditional manual keys. The technology isn't 100% reliable and can fail in a variety of ways. If your car's fob begins to fail then a dead battery is most likely to be the cause. You can replace the battery yourself for less than $10 at a hardware store or a big-box retailer, and a lot of automakers offer instructions on how to do it yourself in the owner's manual. If the fob isn't functioning completely, it could be time to replace it.
Some people can save money on a new key fob by buying aftermarket ones online or in an auto-parts shop and having them programmed by an experienced locksmith or mechanic. A professional might charge a flat fee of $100 to $200 to programme the fob for your vehicle, mini Replacement key fob according to CR.
Before you order a replacement fob, you should remove the old one's activation so it doesn't get misused or get into the wrong hands (a service provided by BimmerTech). You can then have the new fob installed and linked to your vehicle to ensure that only correct driver profiles are linked to it. This will stop your partner or children from accidentally changing your car's settings such as the mirror position or climate control. They can also use the fob to start your car.
Fobs with a Combination mini key fob
Some fobs include features that do more than just lock and unlock the car. For example some fobs let you roll down the windows, or even auto-park your vehicle (for those who have some ego).
It's important to check the information on the aftermarket key fobs online to ensure they're compatible with the model of your car. Review the list of compatible vehicle models for each fob before you buy to make sure that it will work.
It's best to get replacement keys from the dealer if you have a newer car. They're usually programmed to work with your vehicle by a trained technician, and it's not uncommon for a large price tag to be attached.
If you're in a hurry, a few department stores have replacement fobs for popular models. They're not guaranteed to fit correctly and may require professional programming or a mechanical backup key laser-cut in order to function. The most reliable option is to use an auto locksmith who will offer a guarantee on their products and services. This is the quickest way to acquire a functioning fob in case you lose yours or had it stolen. They also have the equipment required to cut quickly and program an entirely new fob.
