Key Fob Replacement and Repair

Key fobs on modern cars do a lot of work and are subject to a lot of abuse. In most cases, just a simple repair or replacement is all that's needed to get them working again.

Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries. This is easily found in auto parts and hardware stores. Before you call an expert, try a few DIY solutions!

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery in the key fob's remote powers your remote in your car and, in push-to-start vehicles, it can start your engine. It is therefore important to keep a functioning and healthy battery. A dead key fob is an issue when you're in the middle of nowhere. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement is able to fix the issue quickly.

The most frequent indication that a key fob battery is depleting is the decrease in signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on the fob don't work or require additional effort to be activated.

You will often find a new key fob battery in the auto parts section of a large box store or on the internet. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and near 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 correct battery for your fob. Certain vehicles require a particular size or type of battery that isn't always readily available at big-box stores. Be sure to check before purchasing.

The battery is typically located in the back of the key fob. It can be removed with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade by opening the case. The battery will appear like an ordinary coin, and it will be labeled based on its size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus marks in order to place the new battery properly. After the replacement battery has been inserted, gently snap both pieces of the fob together and test each button to ensure that they work.

If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, it could have been deprogrammed. In this scenario you'll have to contact locksmiths for assistance, which will cost some more than replacing the key fob battery.

If your fob's battery is dying or you're having other issues with your fob's key, an experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can inspect and repair it to get you back on the road. Make sure to look over all of our services available in your area and schedule an appointment now!

Weak Signals

If your key fob does not respond to the buttons of the remote, it could indicate that the signaling is not working correctly. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals can cause poor performance and range.

The battery level of your fob is a good idea as it can significantly affect signal sensitivity. It is also recommended to reset the settings of your fob and help bring back an even and consistent response from the car key repair. The procedure may differ from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support number is your best resource.

Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, including interference from other devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices can interfere with the RF (radio-frequency) signals your key fob transmits to the vehicle's receiver.

Finally physical damage to your key fob could also interfere with the transmission of RF signals, which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A blown fuses, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case of the fob can all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote to not to function properly.

There are a few easy steps you can follow to try and solve the issue of weak signals from your fob, for example, resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn, it may be time to replace it.

Lastly, don't forget that if you have a spare key fob repairs fob that comes with your vehicle, it can be used in place of the primary remote in the event that it starts to fail. You should try this solution first to see if it can resolve the issue before buying a new remote. If not, it might be the right time to consult an expert auto locksmith. They will be able diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.

Physical Damage

Key fobs can have problems from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these issues aren't complicated or a major issue and can be fixed with a few easy steps. It's also a good idea to have spare batteries or even an additional fob in case one of your keys ceases to function.

A dead battery is the most common reason why a key fob in a car is not working. These tiny devices depend on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and are available at most pharmacies, food stores, and other places that sell electronic products. The fob's case can be opened using a screwdriver with a flat head, and gently pry out the battery that you have. Ensure that it is not damaged or loose, and then insert a new battery. Most fobs require CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require a different type.

When your fob loses its pairing, it may also cease to respond to buttons. This could be due to many factors, such as changing the batteries. However it is possible to fix the issue with an auto Locksmith or a local dealer can usually solve the issue.

Try this trick to solve your fob issue if none of the above methods work: remove the battery from both the fob and the car for around ten minutes, and then reconnect them in the reverse order. This could trigger a reboot within the system and, in some instances it will solve the issue without having to do any of the other steps.

While you're experimenting with the fob, be sure to keep it clear of water and other dangers. A fob is durable but you need to treat it with care to make it last for as long as you can.

If none of the troubleshooting procedures above are helpful you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped or tripped over, or exposed to other extreme environmental conditions, it may be beyond repair and requires a replacement. Find the most competitive price.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care, it's a fact of the road that car key fobs will sometimes fail to function. It's costly to replace yours when it is lost particularly when you don't have a spare. "You may end up paying $50 to $100 for a new one and having it programmed by the dealer, plus mechanical backups that could cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive key repair analyst at Consumer Reports.

One of the most common reasons for a key fob to stop working is a basic problem, such as a weak battery. You can try replacing the battery on your own if you know how or refer to your owner's manual. If that doesn't work, you'll have to call an expert.

A locksmith will be capable of helping you locate the lost fob or have it replaced. A locksmith will probably know the reason why your fob stopped working in the first initial place. If your vehicle is an older model with no smart technology built-in, you can save some money by finding the key number plate that is on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and recording it in a safe place--such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it easier for the locksmith to reprogram a new key fob for your car key button repair if you ever need to do it.

If your existing key fob is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it before getting an entirely new one and this can be more expensive than replacing it. That's because modern key fobs use rolling-code encryption to stop thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that the locksmith has to have a special programming tool that is available only to car manufacturers, which increases the cost.

In most cases, the whole service will be charged at one time. This includes any costs to reprogramme a new keyfob. This can range from $20 in certain stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, depending on the model of vehicle.