Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs in modern automobiles perform a lot of work and are subject to lots of abuse. In most cases, an easy repair or replacement is all it takes to make them work again.
Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that can be found in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. Before calling a professional, do some of the DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery of the key fob powers your remote in your car and, in push-to-start vehicles, it can start your engine. Therefore, it is essential to keep an active, healthy battery. A dead key fob is an issue when you're in the middle of nowhere. A simple, affordable replacement will fix the problem quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are the most frequent signs that a keyfob battery is dying. You might also notice that the buttons on your fob don't function or require any effort to activate.
You will often find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a large box store or on the internet. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are sold in packs of two or more. Consult your owner's guide before you purchase the correct battery. Certain cars require a specific size or type of battery that isn't always in stock at big-box retailers Be sure to know the specifications prior to you purchase.
Typically the battery is situated in the back of your key fob. It is removed by tearing the case open using a flat-blade screwdriver. The battery will look similar to 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 insert the battery correctly. After the replacement battery is placed in the fob, gently snap both pieces of the fob together. Then test the buttons to ensure they work.
If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this case you'll have to contact an expert locksmith, which will cost a bit more than replacing the key fob battery.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery has failed. Make an appointment to look over all of the services we provide in your local area.
Weak Signals
If you find that your key fob isn't responding to buttons on the remote, it could be a sign of a problem with the signaling. Radio signals are used to send messages between your car and the key fob. Poor or inconsistent radio signals can cause poor performance and a limited range.
One of the first things you should check is whether or not your fob's battery is insufficient because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. It's also worth resetting the settings of your fob that can help restore a more consistent response from the car. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or a phone call to the manufacturer's help line is likely to be the best source of information here.
Other factors can cause weak fob signals, for example, interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines as well as other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Additionally physical damage to your key fob may also interfere with the transmission of RF signals which may result in poor range and performance. A blown fuse, broken or cracked buttons or bent fob case can all affect the transmission of signals, causing the remote to not respond.
There are some simple steps you can try to and resolve the issue of weak fob signals, for example, resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn, it could be time to replace it.
Don't forget to utilize the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote begins to fail. It's worth trying this solution to determine if it resolves the issue before you invest in an entirely new one. In this instance, it might be time to call a professional auto-locksmith. They can determine the cause and suggest the best method of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems occasionally. Fortunately, car key fob repair of these issues aren't serious or complex and can be fixed with some simple steps. It's recommended to keep spare batteries or another key fob in the event that one of your keys fails to work.
The most frequent cause for car keys not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They are easily replaced and can be purchased in most pharmacies and stores. You can open your fob's case using a flat head screwdriver and gently pull out the battery. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours may need a different type.
Your fob might also stop responding to buttons after losing its connection with your car. This could be due to various reasons, such as changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or a local dealer is usually able to solve the issue.
If none of the strategies above work, you can try this method: disconnect the batteries from the car and fob for a short period of time and then connect them in 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.
Keep the fob clear of water or other sources of damage while experimenting. A fob is durable however, you must treat it with care to ensure that it lasts for as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting procedures above work you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other harsh environmental conditions it could be beyond repair and in need of an upgrade. Find the most affordable price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs may occasionally fail to function. It can be expensive to replace yours in the event that you lose it and especially if you do not have an alternative. "You could end up paying $50 or more for an equivalent replacement from the dealer and then have it programmed, as well as a new mechanical backup, which will cost at least another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob to not function is a simple issue, like a weak battery. You can try changing the battery on your own if you know how or consult your owner's manual. If this doesn't work, you'll have to call an expert.
A locksmith can be in a position to assist you in finding your lost fob or get it replaced. A locksmith will probably know the reason your fob stopped working in the first in the first place. If your car is old and doesn't include smart technology however, you can save money by recording the number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain. This will make it much easier for the locksmith to reprogram a new key fob to your car if you ever need to do it.
If the key fob you have is a smart key of the present, you'll have to visit a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it and get a new one made which is more expensive than simply replacing it. That's because modern key fobs use rolling-code encryption to stop thieves from accessing the car. This means that the locksmith has to be equipped with a specific programming tool that is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.
In the majority of cases, the whole service will be billed at the same time. This includes any charges to reprogramme a new keyfob. This could range from around $20 in certain stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, based on the model of vehicle.