Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized a great deal and are often abused. Often just a simple repair or replacement is all you need to make them work again.
The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries, which are readily available in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. However, before calling a professional, try a few DIY fixes!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery of the key fob powers your car's remote and, in push-to-start vehicles, it can start your engine. As a result, it is essential to keep a healthy, working battery. A dead key fob is an issue when you're on-the-go. The good news is that a simple, affordable replacement can fix it quickly.
The most common sign that a key fob's battery is dying is the loss of signal strength and range. You might also notice that the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require more effort.
You can often find the latest key fob batteries in the auto parts section of a large box store or on the internet. Typically, they are CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are sold in packs of two or more. Make sure to consult your owner's manual prior to you purchase the correct battery. Certain vehicles require a certain size or kind of battery that's not always readily available at big-box stores So, make sure you be aware of the correct specifications before you buy.
The battery is usually located on the back of the key fob. It can be removed using a flat-bladed screwdriver by prying the case open. It will usually resemble the shape of a small coin, and be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus signs in order to insert the battery correctly. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together and test the buttons.
It's worth noting that when your key fob is unable to not function, even after a battery replacement, it might have been deprogrammed. In this instance, you'll need to contact a locksmith for help, which will cost a bit more than 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 failed. Be sure to check out all of our services available in your area and make an appointment today!
Weak Signals
If your key fob isn't able to respond to the buttons of the remote it could be an indication that the signaling isn't functioning properly. Your car and key fob are dependent on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor range and performance.
One of the first things you should determine is if the battery of your fob is depleted because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can also help restore a more constant response. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's manual or a call to the manufacturer's support line is your best guide.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs as well as wireless communication devices could interfere with the signal RF (radio-frequency) signals that your key fob sends to connect to the receiver of your vehicle.
The physical damage to your keyfob can also affect the transmission of an RF signal, resulting in lower performance and less range. A blown fuses, a broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob could affect signal transmission and cause the remote to respond.
There are a few simple steps you can take to try and fix the problem of weak signals from your fob, like resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn, it may be time to replace it.
Don't forget to use the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. You should try this solution first to see if you can fix the problem before buying a new remote. If not, this might be the best time to contact an experienced auto locksmith. They'll be able to diagnose the problem and suggest the best solution.
Physical Damage
It's not unusual for key fobs to encounter issues from time-to-time. Luckily, the majority of these problems are not complicated or a major issue and can be resolved by following a few simple steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or another fob available in case one of your keys fails to work.
The most common reason for the car key fob not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They are easy to replace and are available at most pharmacies, food stores and shops which sell electronic items. The fob's case can be opened using a screwdriver with a flat head, and gently pry out the battery that you have. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged or loose. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours might require a different kind.
Your fob could also stop responding to buttons when it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This can happen due to a number of factors, including changing the batteries, however it is typically a simple issue to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to fix.
If none of the solutions above work, you can try this method: disconnect the batteries from the car and the fob for a few minutes, then reconnect the two in reverse order. keys repair may cause the system to restart and in some instances it can fix the issue without further steps.
When you're playing around with the fob, ensure to keep it out of water and other dangers. A fob is durable however, you must treat it with care to ensure that it lasts for as long as it is possible to.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above are helpful you, you may have to replace your key fob. If it has been dropped, trampled on or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it may not be able to be repaired and will need a replacement. Look around for the most affordable price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care keys to cars can fail at times. It can be expensive to replace yours when it is lost, especially in the event that you don't have an extra. "You might end up paying $50 or more for an alternative from the dealer and then have it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup, which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu, an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.
One of the most frequent reasons for a key fob's device to stop working is a basic issue, such as an insufficient battery. You can try replacing the battery yourself If you are familiar with the procedure or consult your owner's manual. If this doesn't work, you'll have to call an expert.
A locksmith can help you to replace or locate the lost key fob. They will also likely have a good idea of the reason your fob stopped functioning in the first place. And if your vehicle is an older model with no smart technology built-in You can save cash by locating the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and storing it in a secure location, such as your wallet or on your phone. If you're in need of reprogramming the key fob of your car locksmith is able to perform the task more easily.
If your key fob is an older smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This can cost more than simply replacing it. This is because modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that the locksmith must have an exclusive programming tool that only the vehicle manufacturer has, which adds to the overall cost.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes the cost of programming the new key fob. This could range from around $20 at some shops to over $200 at car dealerships, based on the car.