Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs found in modern automobiles perform a lot of work and are subject to lots of abuse. Many times, a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to get them back in working order.
Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries, which are easy to find in auto parts retailers. Before you call in an expert, try some of the DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The key fob's battery powers the remote you have in your car and, in push-to-start vehicles, it can start your engine. It is therefore important to maintain a working healthy and a good battery. A dead key repair car fob can be a major problem when you're on-the-go. The good news is that a simple, inexpensive replacement can fix it quickly.
The most frequent indication that a battery on a key fob is depleting is the decrease in signal strength and range. It is also possible to find that the buttons on your fob don't work or require extra effort to activate.
A new key fob can be found in the auto part section of a large retailer or on the internet. They are typically CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you shop for the right battery. Some cars require a particular size or type of battery that isn't always in stock at big-box stores Be sure to know the specifications prior to you purchase.
The battery is usually located at the back of the key fob. It can be removed using a flat-bladed screwdriver by removing the case. It will usually resemble a small coin and be marked with the battery's size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols 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.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this instance it is likely that a locksmith will be needed to help you. This will cost more than replacing the battery in the key fob.
Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob if it is damaged or if the battery is dead. Make an appointment to look over the range of services we provide in your local area.
Weak Signals
If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to buttons on the remote, this can be a sign of a problem with the signaling. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor performance and range.
One of the first things to examine is whether your fob's battery is insufficient, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings of the fob can also aid in restoring a regular response. The process varies from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or call to the manufacturer's help line is probably the best guide here.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle.
Damage to your keyfob's physical structure can also interfere with the transmission of radio signal, which can result in low performance and a limited range. A blown fuse, broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob can all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote not to function properly.
There are some simple steps you can follow to try and resolve the issue of weak fob signals, for example, resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If your fob is worn out, it's probably time to replace it completely.
Don't forget to use the spare remote that came with your car in the event that your primary remote starts to fail. You should test this option first to see if it can solve the issue prior to purchasing an entirely new remote. In this instance it may be time to call an auto-locksmith professional. They'll be able to identify the issue and suggest the most effective method of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems occasionally. Fortunately, most of these problems are not complicated or a major issue and can be solved by following a few simple steps. It's a good idea also to keep spare batteries or an additional fob on hand in the event that your key fails to function.
A dead battery is the most frequent reason why a key fob in a car key remote repair is not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced easily and can be found in most pharmacies, grocery stores and shops that sell electronics. The fob's case can be opened using a flat-headed screwdriver and gently pull out the battery you have. Check to see if it's damaged or loose, and then put in an alternative battery. Most fobs require CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require a different type.
The fob may also stop responding to the buttons after losing its pairing with the vehicle. This could be due to a number of reasons, including changing the batteries, but it is typically a simple issue to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to fix.
Try this trick to solve your fob issue if none of the above methods work: Disconnect the battery from both the car and keyless entry repairs the fob for about ten minutes, and then reconnect them in a reverse order. This may cause the system to restart, and in some cases it can fix the issue without further steps.
While you're testing the fob, be sure to keep it out of water and other sources of damage. Fobs can be quite robust, but it's crucial to take care with it in order for it to last as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above help, you may need to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other extreme environmental conditions, it could be beyond repair and requires a replacement. Find the most competitive price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care keys for cars, they can fail at times. If you lose yours, it could be a huge expense to replace it, especially in the event that you don't have spare. "You could end up paying $50 - $100 for a new one and having it programmed by the dealer, plus a mechanical backup that will cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob's device to stop working is a simple issue, such as a weak battery. If you know how to repair car key fob to change the battery, or if the owner's manual has instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll need to contact an expert.
A locksmith can help to find or replace the lost key fob. A locksmith will probably know the reason why your fob stopped working in the first place. If your car is older and doesn't come with smart technology however, you can save money by recording the number plate on your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain. This will make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a brand new key fob for your car if you ever need to do it.
If your existing key fob is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit a car dealership or locksmith to remove it from the system and have an entirely new one, which can be more expensive than replacing it. The reason is that modern key fobs use rolling-code encryption to stop thieves from accessing the car. This means that locksmiths must use a special programing tool which is only available to car manufacturers, which increases the cost.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any charges to reprogram a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle it could cost anywhere from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a dealership for cars.