Car Key Fob Repairs
key lock repair near me fobs today do much more than just unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can add up to costly repairs if one of them breaks.
It's a good idea to know that most fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries which can be replaced at home. You may even find that a reset will bring it back to life.
Battery Replacement
The most frequent reason that a key fob doesn't work is because of the battery being dead. It's a simple solve and is worth a try before you spend money on a replacement fob. Simply drive your car to a local auto parts store or hardware retailer that stocks button cells and choose the replacement. You can also check the owner's manual (or in the case that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people who show you how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery in the particular type of fob.
You'll need to gently pull apart the sides of most fobs to reach the battery. You'll need a small flat-bladed screwdriver, or a different tool with a small blade. It might help to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob that you can wedge your tool between. You may also want to look out for small pieces that may come loose while you work.
Insert the new battery in the same way you removed the old one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the markings in the battery compartment of your fob.
Press a button to test the fob. If it doesn't work, there could be an issue with your vehicle that requires a specialist to fix or replace.
Some key fobs require special tools to open and close them, and the contacts inside can be fragile and susceptible to corroding. In these instances, a car specialist or the dealer will likely be the best option. When replacing a battery, be patient and follow your owner's manual. You may be able to locate a battery similar at a big-box store or discounter, but make sure you read your owner's guide to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle.
Replace the internal key
To prevent theft, most key fobs come with an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. When the battery in the fob goes out and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind, which can be used to unlock doors and trunks. In some cases, this key can even start certain cars. Most people don't know this, but they can save themselves a trip to the dealership by simply replacing the fob's battery. Most modern fobs use flat watches-style batteries that are easy to find in hardware stores and auto parts shops. Choosing the right type of battery is crucial however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry, causing the fob to fail much earlier.
If you try replacing the battery, and the issue is still there, it could be an indication that something else is going on with your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if there's a reset procedure that will restore the fob to the factory program. If this doesn't work, you'll have to visit a dealership or independent shop that specializes security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.
Fobs can also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically placed on the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they send signals that allow you to unlock and start your car using the fob. If you notice that you're having to get closer and closer to your car key fob repair in order to make it work, there's a high possibility that the transmitter is not working.
A professional might have to open the fob's case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually work, however certain fobs require a specific tool or a special piece of equipment which can only be found at a dealership. This is a job that should be performed by a certified mechanic in order to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply requires a new battery. These batteries are readily available in both pharmacy and home improvement stores and are cheap. This is a great method to start before you purchase the new key fob.
You may also be able to reprogram the fob by following some basic steps. This procedure can differ between vehicles, so it is recommended to refer to the owner's manual and research your specific model. One key fob repair near me fob could require that the ignition be on when programming. A key fob might require the key to be inserted several times.
The procedure is easy. First, make sure the new battery is in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob communicates with the vehicle in a proper manner. Then, put the old key back into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Next, press the lock button on the fob while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is usually situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. Within a brief time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's being programmed by cycling the doors locks or emitting the sound of a chime. This procedure can be difficult, so it's important to pay attention to the timing and don't over-press the key button.
If the key fob doesn't work after reprogramming, try using new batteries. If the problem persists then a visit to your car dealer or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional will have all the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or design a new one if needed.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs for around $200-$250, based on the car. But he's had to refuse customers with European models due to the fact that they don't have the costly equipment they require. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but you should always consult your local car dealer to find out the cost.
How to get a new fob
If your key fob can't be repaired, you might need to buy a new one. Depending on the brand and model, a dealership or an auto locksmith may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a fob replacement However, they'll have the necessary tools and software to program your vehicle correctly. For a more affordable solution, many independent locksmiths can provide you with a brand-new car key fob for a more affordable cost.
Before you purchase a new key fob it's recommended to consider resetting your current device. Your owner's manual should outline the proper procedure for reset, which is usually just pushing a few buttons that reset it to factory programming.
You should also look over the owner's guide and warranty information to see whether you are eligible for a replacement key fob. If your car is under warranty or you have a car keys repairs-insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.
Finding a fob is simple enough however, finding the right location to do it isn't easy. If you own a new car key fob repairs near me and would like the assurance with knowing that your key fobs are in good working condition, you may be better off going to the dealership for this service. However, if you want an option that is more affordable, it is often possible to find a locksmith who is independent who can provide the same service for a significantly lower price.
A locksmith professional is a great choice if you're not comfortable doing this kind of work. They are trained and equipped to reprogram or replace all kinds of car key fobs and often, they can complete the task quickly. Locksmiths can also come to your office or home which is convenient for a lot of people. They can also cut and program keys on the spot if you've lost them. This is ideal for those who don't want to leave their car in the garage.