Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Key fobs on modern vehicles perform a lot of work and are subject to lots of abuse. Sometimes an easy replacement or repair car key fob is all that's required to restore them to working order.
Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries. This is readily available in auto parts and hardware stores. Before calling a professional, do a few DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The battery of the key fob powers your remote in your car, and in push-to-start cars, it can start your engine. Therefore, it is critical to maintain an active, healthy battery. A dead key fob is an issue for anyone in the middle of nowhere. A simple, inexpensive replacement will solve the issue quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are the most commonly observed indicators that a battery in a keyfob is failing. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on your fob don't work or require extra effort to turn on.
It is common to find a new key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box retailer or online. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. However, it's a good idea to read the owner's manual prior to purchasing the right battery for your vehicle. Certain cars require a specific size or type of battery that's not always in stock at big-box retailers Be sure to be aware of the correct specifications before you purchase.
The battery is usually found at the back of the key fob. It can be removed using the flat-bladed screwdriver, by removing the case. It is usually shaped like a small coin and be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus symbols so that you can put the new battery in the correct place. Once the battery replacement is placed in the fob, gently snap both pieces of the fob together. Then test the buttons to make sure they function.
If your key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this situation you will require a locksmith required to assist. This is more expensive than replacing the battery in the key fob.
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 all of the services we offer in your local (try here) area.
Weak Signals
If your key fob isn't able to respond to the buttons on the remote, it could indicate that the signaling system is not functioning properly. Radio signals are used to transmit information between your car and key fob. Inconsistent or weak radio signals can lead to poor performance and range.
One of the first things you should examine is whether your fob's battery is insufficient because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob could aid in restoring a more constant response. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support number is your best guide.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, including interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices may interfere with the signal RF (radio-frequency) signals that your key fob transmits to connect to the receiver of your vehicle.
The physical damage to your keyfob can interfere with the transmission of radio signal, resulting in lower performance and less range. A blown fuse, damaged or cracked button, or a bent case on the fob could affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to function properly.
You can fix the problem by resetting the settings on your fob, or by replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn out, it might be the right time to replace it.
Don't forget to remember that if you have a spare key fob that comes with your vehicle, this can be used in place of the primary remote in case it starts to fail. Try this method first to see if it can resolve the issue before purchasing another remote. In this situation it may be time to call an auto-locksmith professional. They will be able diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.
Physical Damage
It's not uncommon for key fobs to encounter problems from time to time. Most of these issues aren't complex or severe and can be fixed by following a few easy steps. It's also a good idea to have spare batteries or another key fob in the event that one of your keys ever fails to work.
The most frequent cause for car keys not working is a dead battery. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced easily and are available at most pharmacies, food stores and places which sell electronic items. You can remove your fob's case using an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently remove the battery that is in there. Check to see if it's damaged or loose and then insert the new battery. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours may require a different type.
When your fob loses its pairing, it could stop responding to buttons. This could be due to a variety of factors, including changing the batteries, but it is usually easy for an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to resolve.
You can try this method to fix your fob if none of the above methods work: Disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for about ten minutes, then reconnect them in the opposite order. This may cause the system to restart and in some cases, this will fix the issue without additional steps.
While you're experimenting with the fob, be sure to keep it away from water and other potential sources of damage. The fob is tough, but you should take care of it to make it last for as long as it is possible to.
If none of the troubleshooting techniques above help you, you may have to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown, trampled on or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it could not be able to be repaired and may require an upgrade. If this is the case, be sure to look around for a deal before making your final choice.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care keys to cars may fail to function. If yours is lost, it could be a huge expense to replace it--especially if you don't have a spare. "You might end up paying between $50 and $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by the dealer, as well as mechanical backups that could cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
A weak battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob's device to cease to function. If you know how to repair broken car key to replace the battery, or if your owner's guide has instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't solve the issue, it's time to contact an expert.
A locksmith can be in a position to assist you in finding your lost fob or get it replaced. A locksmith can probably tell you the reason why your fob stopped working in the first in the first place. And if your vehicle is a model older than the one you own and has no smart technology built-in You can save cash by locating the key number plate that is on your existing mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and recording it in a secure location, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it much easier for a locksmith to reprogram the new key fob to your car should you require it.
If the key fob you have is a modern smart mobile key fob repair it will require a locksmith or a dealership to remove it from the system and have an entirely new one and this can be more expensive than replacing it. The reason is that modern key fobs use rolling-code encryption to stop thieves from getting into the car. This means that locksmiths need a special programing tool that only the car manufacturer has, which adds to the overall cost.
In the majority of instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any costs to reprogram a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle the cost can range from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a car dealership.