Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized frequently and are often misused. In most cases, just a simple repair or replacement is all that's needed to make them work again.
The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries, which are easy to find in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. Before calling a professional, do a few DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The key fob battery powers the remote function of your car and, with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. As a result, it is crucial to maintain an efficient, functioning battery. When you're out and about and your key fob is not working, it can cause a lot of trouble. The good news is that a simple, inexpensive replacement can fix it quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are the most commonly observed indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. You may also notice the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require additional effort.
A new key fob can be found in the auto part section of a major retailer or online. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. However, it's a good idea to consult your owner's manual before you shop for the right battery for your fob. Some cars require a specific size or type that is not always available at big-box stores. Be sure to check before purchasing.
Typically the battery is situated on the back of your key fob. It is removed by tearing open the case with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. The battery will appear like an ordinary coin and will be identified according to its size. Be sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols in order to put the new battery in the correct place. After the replacement battery has been installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob together. Then test the buttons to ensure that they work.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery, it might have been deprogrammed. In this case you'll need to call a locksmith for help and it will cost you a little more than simply replacing the key fob battery.
Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery has died. Make an appointment to look over the range of services we provide in your region.
Weak Signals
If your key fob does not respond to the buttons of the remote it could be a sign that the signaling isn't functioning properly. Radio signals are used to communicate between your car and key fob. Inconsistent or weak radio signals can lead to low performance and limited range.
One of the first things to determine is if your fob's battery is low, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings of the fob can also help restore a more constant response. The process varies from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a call to the manufacturer's help line will likely be your best resource here.
Other factors can cause weak fob signals, for example, interference from other devices operating at the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines and other key fobs wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob could affect the transmission of RF signals which may result in poor range and performance. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case of the fob could affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote not to respond.
You can attempt to solve the issue by resetting your fob's settings, or by replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is old and worn out, it's probably the time to replace it all over again.
Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that came with your car if your primary remote begins to fail. It's worth trying this option to see if it solves the issue prior to investing in a new one. If not, it might be the best time to contact an expert auto locksmith. They can identify the issue and recommend the best course of actions.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these issues aren't difficult or complicated and can be solved by following a few simple steps. It's a good idea to keep spare batteries or another fob in the event that your key ceases to work.
The most frequent reason for car keys not working is an inactive battery. These tiny devices rely on tiny lithium-ion button or coin batteries to function. They are easily replaced and can be purchased in most pharmacies and stores. Open the fob's case with a screwdriver with a flat head and gently pull out the battery that you have. Make sure it's not damaged or loose and then insert an alternative battery. Most fobs use CR2032 batteries, but yours may require a different type.
Your fob could not be responding to buttons after losing its pairing with the car. This can be caused by many factors including changing the batteries. However it is possible to fix the issue with an auto Locksmith or local dealership can usually fix it.
If none of the methods above work, try this trick: disconnect the battery from the car and the fob for a short period of time, then reconnect the two in reverse order. This can force a restart within the system, and in some cases this will fix the problem without doing any of the other steps.
While you're experimenting with the fob, ensure to keep it away from water and other possible damage sources. The fob is quite robust, but it's crucial to treat it with care if you want it to last as long as it can.
If all of the above troubleshooting tips don't help, it might be time to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown or trampled upon, or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it could not be repairable and will require an upgrade. Find the most competitive price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care, car key fobs can fail at times. It's costly to replace yours when it is lost, especially when you don't have an alternative. "You may end up spending $50 or more for an alternative from a dealer and get it programmed, as well as a new mechanical backup which could cost you at least another $100," says Mel Yu who is an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob's to not function is a simple problem, such as an insufficient battery. Try changing the battery yourself if you know how or get instructions from your owner's manual. If that doesn't work you'll need to contact an expert.
A locksmith can help you replace or find the lost key fob. A locksmith will likely know the reason your fob stopped working in the first place. And if repair car keys near me is an older model that has no built-in smart technology, you can save some money by finding the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and storing it in a secure place, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This can make it easier for the locksmith to reprogram the new key fob for your car should you need to do it.
If your current key fob is a modern smart key it will require a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it and get an entirely new one, which can be more expensive than simply replacing it. That's because modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from getting into the car. That means that the locksmith must have an exclusive programing tool that only the car manufacturer has, which adds to the overall cost.
In most cases, the entire process will be charged once. This includes any costs for reprogramming a new keyfob. It can cost anywhere from $20 in certain stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, depending on the vehicle.