Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are used often and are frequently abused. Often just a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to make them functional again.
The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries that are readily available in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. Before calling a professional, you can do a few DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery in the key fob powers the remote function of your car. It also, in conjunction with push-to start vehicles, permits it to start your engine. It is therefore essential to maintain a functional healthy and a good battery. A dead key fob is an issue when you're on-the-go. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement is able to fix the issue quickly.
The most common indication that a key fob's battery is failing is the loss of signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on your fob do not function or require any effort to turn on.
You will often find a new key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box store or on the internet. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. However it's best to consult your owner's manual prior to purchasing the correct battery for your device. Certain vehicles require a certain size or type of battery that isn't always available at big-box stores Be sure to know the right specs before you buy.
The battery is usually found in the back of the key fob. It can be removed using the flat-bladed screwdriver, by prying the case open. It is likely to look like a small coin and be marked with the battery's size. Be sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols so that you can insert the battery correctly. After the replacement battery has been installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob together and test each button to make sure they function.
If your key fob isn't working after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this case it is likely that a locksmith will be required to assist you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery of your key fob.
If your fob's battery is failing or you're experiencing other issues with your fob's battery, an experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can examine and fix it to get you back on the road. Set up an appointment to review all the services we offer in your local area.
Weak Signals
If you find that your key fob isn't responding to buttons on the remote, this can be an indication of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals could cause poor performance and range.
One of the first things you should examine is whether your fob's battery is low because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob could also aid in restoring a regular response. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a call to the manufacturer's help line is probably the best resource here.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, including 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 disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle.
remote key fob repair to your keyfob can affect the transmission of RF signal, resulting in low performance and a limited range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked buttons, or a bent fob case can all affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not respond.
You can resolve the issue by resetting the fob's settings or by replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is damaged, it's time to replace it completely.
Also, don't forget if you have a spare key fob that is part of your vehicle, this can be used instead of the primary remote in case it starts to fail. It's a good idea to try this method to see if it solves the issue prior to investing in a new one. In this instance it could be the right the right time to contact an auto-locksmith professional. They can identify the issue and suggest the best course of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems at times. Most of these issues are not complex or serious and can be resolved with a few simple steps. It's a good idea 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 for a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button batteries to function. They are easily replaced and can be purchased at most pharmacies and stores. You can remove your fob's case using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently pull out the existing battery. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged, loose or damaged. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours might need a different type.
When your fob loses its pairing, it could cease to respond to buttons. This can be caused by many factors including changing the batteries. However an auto Locksmith or local dealership is usually able to fix it.
You can try this trick 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 opposite order. This can force a restart within the system, and in some cases it will solve the issue without having to do any of the other steps.
Keep the fob away from water or other sources of damage while you are playing around. The fob is tough but you need to treat it with care to ensure that it lasts for as long as it is possible to.
If the suggestions above do not help, it may be time to consider replacing your key fob. If it's been dropped and trampled or exposed to extreme environmental conditions, it may not be repairable and may require a replacement. Shop around to find the most affordable price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care keys to cars can fail at times. It can be expensive to replace yours if you lose it particularly in the event that you don't have a spare. "You may end up paying $50 to $100 for a replacement and getting it programmed by the dealer, and a mechanical backup that will cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
A weak battery is one of the most common causes for a keyfob's stop working. If you are familiar with how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll need to contact an expert.
A locksmith is capable of helping you locate your lost fob, or get it replaced. They will also likely have an idea of the reason why your fob was not functioning in the first place. If your vehicle is a model older than the one you own and has no built-in smart technology, you can save some money by finding the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain) and storing it in a safe place--such as in your wallet or on your phone. If you're in need of reprogramming the key fob of your car locksmith is able to do it much more quickly.
If your existing key fob is a modern smart key and you want to change it, you'll need to go to a car dealership or locksmith to deprogram it and get a new one made which is more expensive than simply replacing it. That's because modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from getting into the car. That means that the locksmith needs to have an exclusive programing tool that only the car manufacturer has, which adds to the overall expense.
In most cases, the entire process will be charged one time. This includes all costs for reprogramming a new keyfob. This could range from around $20 in certain stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, based on the car.