5 Facts New Car Owners Need to Know About Key Fobs and Electronic Keys
Posted on: 26 October 2017
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Are you buying a car that has a key fob attached to the key for the first time? If so, you may be wondering about these inventions. Here are five facts you need to know.
1. The Word Key Fob Doesn't Just Refer to Electronic Keys
When many people hear the phrase "key fob", they think that it just refers to the electronic components attached to contemporary car keys, but that is not the case. In strict terms, the phrase "key fob" can refer to any decorative trinket that you attach to your keys via a key chain.
The key fobs that allow you to remotely lock or unlock your car doors are technically called access control key fobs.
2. The Fob May or May Not Be Attached to Your Key
In some cases, you get a stand alone remote access key fob. That lets you lock and unlock your doors and possibly open the boot of your car, but it doesn't help you start your vehicle. However, in other cases, the fob is built into your key.
3. Your Car Won't Start Without the Key Fob
If you have a car key that has the fob and the key integrated, you won't be able to start your car without that fob. With these types of vehicles, you can't just use a metal key to start your car. The fob itself has electronic elements that are instrumental in the car starting.
4. You Can Get Copies of Electronic Keys
Generally, when your car key has a fob integrated into it, it is called an electronic key. When you think of copying a key, you may think of the old school machinery that cuts out copies of metal keys. However, modern automotive locksmiths have access to more advanced tools now.
As a result, they can create copies of your electronic keys. If you only have one key to your vehicle, you may want to get a copy made. That way, you don't have to panic if you lose your key.
5. Automotive Locksmiths Can Make New Electronic Keys
If you've lost all your keys, an automotive locksmith can help you make a brand new key. This is called rekeying your car. The locksmith can come to where your car is located, and they use special computerised equipment for this task.
Usually, this is more expensive that getting a copy. As a result, you may want to get copies before you get into this situation.