Cool Tricks You Can Use With a Replacement Volkswagen Key
If your Volkswagen key fob doesn't work as it should, you might need an alternative Volkswagen key. The key could be suffering from a dead or dying battery, or may need to be programmed.
A professional locksmith can create a new key for your Volkswagen. They can also program it to your vehicle so that only you can use it.
What is a Key Fob?
Key fobs, also known as remote keyless entry, is the plastic thingamajig that you keep with your keys that locks and opens your car. It's a modern-day gadget with more features than you thought. Here are some awesome techniques you can employ with your key fob to impress your friends.
A remote key fob contains a microchip that has information about your vehicle's ID as well as an antenna that broadcasts data via radio waves. It also includes a button to unlock the trunk and doors and in certain vehicles, starts the engine remotely. A fob with this feature can also be used to turn on your headlights open sliding side doors on some vans and even lock your car's doors when you're not in the vehicle.
Modern fobs are equipped with security features to prevent their signals from being snatched and copied. Certain fobs have pseudo-random generators that generate an unlock code each time a button is pulled. So that a stolen signal cannot be used to unlock your car.
If your key fob isn't working or is making chirping sound it could be in need of a new battery. Batteries for the majority of fobs are available at big-box stores, hardware stores and online, as well as at dealerships. You may be required to show proof of ownership in order to purchase a replacement key fob, and you might have to reprogram it when the new battery is installed.
How to Replace a Battery
The key fob is one of the most useful gadgets in the arsenal of every driver, but it can also be among the most frustrating items if it fails to function as intended. It's not uncommon to see the key fob cease responding to the button or losing its range, and this can be caused by an inactive battery. The VW key fob battery can be changed easily.
You'll need a brand new CR2032 battery (the type you can buy at all electronics stores) and the small flat-head screwdriver. Cover the screwdriver in tape to avoid damaging your VW key fob. Then, gently break apart the two halves. Remove the old battery, then insert the new one with the positive side facing downwards. Then, put the two halves back together and your VW key fob is good as new.
It is important to remember that replacing your VW key battery must be handled by a reputable automotive locksmith or car dealership. It's also a good idea to bring the key replacement along to the locksmith so that they can program it to your Volkswagen. You might be asked for proof of ownership like your current registration or driver's license. These documents could save you time and money in the long term.
How do I get a new key made?
In most cases, you will need go to a dealership for a new key made. This is because they are the only ones to have the specific equipment required to pair the new key to the vehicle. This could cost anywhere from $50 and $500 depending on the model of your vehicle.
If you decide to take this route, be certain to record your vehicle identification number (VIN) so that the dealer can match your keys to the correct one in their system. The VIN is on the driver's door jamb or the front door sticker or the insurance card, the title of the car or on the dashboard.
If you want to do it yourself, there are a couple of options to replace the battery on a key fob. First, you must remove the mechanical key. To accomplish this, push the small button at the back of the fob. This will allow you to replace the battery. You can remove the two seams on the key fob using flathead. The next step is to carefully remove the old battery and put in the new one. Make sure that it is placed correctly so that the side that is facing upwards is facing up.
How to order a Key
Contrary to traditional Volkswagen vehicles such as the Beetle and Microbus that relied on only keys, modern VW models have advanced key fobs with transmitters and encrypted chips to allow them to communicate with the vehicle. These fobs are programmed to ensure that only your keys are within the area of the vehicle in order to activate features such as push-button entry and keyless start. They also come with sensors to ensure your car is secure and safe when driving away from the dealership, particularly when parking or pulling into a busy road.
Replacing the battery on a VW key fob is very easy, regardless of the model you have. To begin, you will need a flat-head screwdriver and new CR2032 batteries. Use spare key volkswagen covered in tape if possible to keep from damaging the exterior of the battery. Once you have located the seam between the lid and the base and the base, gently pull them apart. The fob will be split vertically into two pieces to make room for the new batteries.
You can purchase an online key that comes with the transponder as well as be cut according to the unique codes of your vehicle. You'll need a photo ID, the title or registration of your vehicle to prove ownership when you pick up your new key. Then, you can bring your key to an area VW dealer or a third-party locksmith, to have it programmed and cut.