Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized often and are often misused. Often just a simple repair or replacement is all you need to make them functional again.
Most fobs run on a flat watch-style battery, which can be found in auto parts and hardware stores. Before you call in 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 vehicles it will start your engine. It is therefore important to maintain a working healthy and a good battery. A dead key fob can be a major problem when you're on-the-go. A simple, affordable replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The most common indication that a key fob's battery is failing is the decrease in signal strength and range. You may also notice that the buttons on the fob don't work or require extra effort to activate.
A new key fob is available in the auto part section of a major retailer or online. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are sold in packs of two or more. However it's a good idea to check your owner's manual before you shop for the correct battery for your fob. Some cars require a particular size or type of battery that isn't always readily available at big-box retailers Be sure to know the right specs before you purchase.
The battery is usually found in the back of the key fob. It can be removed using the flat-bladed screwdriver, by removing the case. It will usually resemble the shape of a small coin, and be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus marks so that you can put the new battery in the correct place. After the battery has been replaced and the fob is closed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together, and test the buttons.
If car key fob repair doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could have been deprogrammed. In this instance you will require a locksmith needed to help you. This will cost more than replacing the battery of your key fob.
The skilled mechanics at YourMechanic are able to repair your key fob if it is damaged or if the battery has died. Make sure you check out the range of services we offer in your area and make an appointment now!
Weak Signals
If your key fob doesn't respond to the buttons of the remote it could indicate that the signaling isn't working properly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, and weak or inconsistent signals can cause poor performance and range.
One of the first things you should determine is if the battery of your fob is depleted since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings of the fob can also help restore a more constant response. The procedure will differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's manual or a call to your manufacturer's support line is the best resource.
Other factors, such as interference from other devices operating on the same frequency, can also affect weak signals. Power lines and other key fobs wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob could hinder the transmission of RF signals, which may result in poor performance and range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked buttons, or a bent fob case can all interfere with the transmission of signals, causing the remote to not respond.
You can fix the problem by resetting your fob's settings or by replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn out, it might be time to replace it.
Don't forget to remember that if you have an extra key fob which is included with your vehicle, it could be used instead of the primary remote if it begins to fail. You should test this option first to see if you can fix the problem before buying an entirely new remote. In this situation it could be the right an appropriate time to consult an expert auto-locksmith. They will be able diagnose the issue and suggest the best course of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems occasionally. Most of the time, these problems aren't complicated or severe and can be fixed with just a few steps. It's important to have spare batteries or another fob available in case one of your keys ever ceases to function.
The most frequent cause for car keys not working is an inactive battery. These small devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They are easy to replace and are available at most pharmacies, food stores, and other places which sell electronic items. The fob's case can be opened using a screwdriver with a flat head, and gently pry out the battery that you have. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged, loose or damaged. The majority of fobs use CR2032 batteries, but yours may require an alternative kind.
Your fob might also stop responding to the buttons if it loses its pairing with the car. This could be due to various reasons like changing the batteries. However an auto Locksmith or a local dealership is usually able to solve the issue.
You can try this method to fix your fob when none of the other methods work: Disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for about 10 minutes, then reconnect them in the reverse order. This could trigger a restart within the system and, in some instances this will fix the issue without having to do any of the other steps.
While you're testing the fob, make sure to keep it away from water and other possible damage sources. Fobs can be quite robust, but it's crucial to take care with it if you want it to last as long as it can.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above are helpful, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown or trampled upon, or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it may not be able to be repaired and may require an upgrade. If this is the case, be sure to search for a deal prior to making a final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs can occasionally stop working. It's expensive to replace yours when it is lost, especially if you do not have an extra. "You may end up paying $50 - $100 for a replacement and having it programmed by a dealer, as well as mechanical backups that could cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
A weak battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob to cease to function. If you are familiar with how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If this doesn't resolve the problem, it's time to contact an expert.
A locksmith can help you replace or find the lost key fob. They'll also have a good idea of the reason your fob stopped working in the first instance. And if your vehicle is an older model that has no built-in smart technology, you can save some cash by locating the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and storing it in a secure location, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This can make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a new key fob to your car should you need to do so.
If your current key fob is a smart key of the present and you want to change it, you'll need to go to a car dealership or locksmith to remove it from the system and have a new one made which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by encryption using rolling-codes, which prevents thieves from gaining access to your car. This means that the locksmith must use a special programming tool that is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.
In the majority of cases, the entire process will be charged once. This includes any charges to reprogramme a new keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could cost anywhere from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a car dealership.