Key Fob Replacement and Repair Modern car key fobs are utilized a great deal and are frequently abused. Sometimes just a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to bring them back into working good working order. Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find in auto parts stores. Before you call a professional, try a few DIY solutions! Dead Key Fob Batteries The key fob's battery powers your remote in your car, and in push-to-start cars, it can start your engine. As a result, it is essential to keep a healthy, working battery. A dead key fob can be an issue when you're traveling. A simple, low-cost replacement can fix the issue quickly. The most common indication that a key fob battery is dying is the decrease in signal strength and range. You may also notice the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require additional effort. You will often find the latest key fob batteries in the auto parts section of a large box retailer or online. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you purchase the correct battery. Certain vehicles require a certain size or type of battery that isn't always in stock at big-box retailers So, make sure you know the right specs before you buy. The battery is typically located in the back of the key fob. It is removed using the flat-bladed screwdriver, by prying the case open. The battery will look similar to tiny coins, and it will be labeled according to its size. Make sure to note the way the plus and minus symbols are positioned to ensure that the new battery is properly placed. After the battery has been replaced then gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together, and test the buttons. It's worth noting that if your key fob continues to not function even after battery replacement, it could have been deprogrammed. In this instance you'll have to contact a locksmith for help which will cost some more than replacing the battery of your key fob. Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob if it's damaged or the battery has failed. Set up an appointment to review all of the services we provide in your area. Weak Signals If your key fob doesn't respond to the buttons on the remote, it could be a sign that the signaling isn't working correctly. Radio signals are used to transmit information between your car and the key fob. Poor or inconsistent radio signals can lead to poor performance and a limited range. One of the first things to determine is if your fob's battery is insufficient, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can also help restore a more regular response. The procedure differs from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or a call to the helpline of the manufacturer is likely to be the best source of information here. Other factors, including interference from other devices operating on the same frequency, can also cause weak signals. Power lines as well as other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle. Additionally physical damage to your key fob may affect the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in range and performance. A blown fuse, broken or cracked buttons or bent fob case can affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond. You can fix the problem by resetting your fob's settings, or by replacing the battery. However, if your fob is worn out, it's probably the time to replace it all over again. Also, don't forget if you have an extra key fob which comes with your vehicle, this can be used instead of the primary remote in the event that it starts to fail. Try this method first to see if you can fix the problem before purchasing another remote. In this instance it could be the right an appropriate time to consult an auto-locksmith professional. car key fob repair will be able to identify the issue and suggest the most effective course of action. Physical Damage It's not unusual for key fobs to experience issues from time to time. The majority of these issues aren't complex or severe and can be fixed by following a few easy steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or another fob available in case one of your keys ceases to function. A dead battery is the main reason for a car keyfob not working. These small devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and places which sell electronic items. The fob's case can be opened using an screwdriver that is flat and gently pull out the battery you have. Make sure it's not damaged or loose, and then insert a new battery. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours may require a different type. If your device loses its pairing, it could cease to respond to buttons. This can be caused by many factors, such as changing the batteries. However an auto Locksmith or a local dealer can usually fix it. If none of the strategies above work, you can try this trick: unplug the battery from the car and fob for a few minutes and then reconnect them in a reverse order. This could trigger a reboot within the system and in some cases this will fix the issue without having to do any of the other steps. When you're playing around with the fob, ensure to keep it away from water and other dangers. The fob is a durable device, but you should take care of it to ensure that it lasts for as long as it is possible to. If none of the troubleshooting steps above help you, you may have to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown around or tripped on, or subjected to other environmental hazards, it may be beyond repair and requires a replacement. Find the best deal. Lost Fob Even with the best of care, car key fobs may fail to function. It's expensive to replace yours if you lose it particularly if you do not have an extra. You may end up spending $50 or more to purchase an equivalent replacement from a dealer and get it programmed, and an additional mechanical backup which will cost at least another $100, says Mel Yu, an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports. One of the most frequent reasons for a key fob to stop working is a basic issue, such as an insufficient battery. Try changing the battery yourself if you know how or refer to your owner's manual. If this doesn't work, you'll need to call an expert. A locksmith can assist you to find or replace the lost key fob. They'll also have an idea of the reason your fob was not functioning in the first place. If your car is older and does not have smart technology built in however, you can save money by recording the key number plate of your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind a keychain with an ornamental design. If you're looking to change the programming of the key fob in your car, the locksmith can do it much more quickly. 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 deprogram it before getting an entirely new one and this can be more expensive than replacing it. That's because modern key fobs employ rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from accessing the car. This means that locksmiths must be equipped with a specific programing tool that 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 costs to reprogram a new key fob. Based on the car the cost can range from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a car dealer.
car key fob repair
