Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized frequently and are often abused. Many times an easy replacement or repair is all it takes to bring them back into good working in good condition.
Most fobs use flat-watch-style batteries that can be found in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. However, before calling an expert, you can try a few DIY fixes!
Dead Key Fob Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote function in your car. It also, in conjunction with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. Therefore, it is essential to keep a healthy, working battery. A dead key fob can be an issue for anyone on-the-go. A simple, inexpensive replacement will solve the issue quickly.
The most common sign that a key fob battery is depleting is the loss of signal strength and range. You might also notice that the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require additional effort.
A new key fob is available in the auto parts section of a large retailer or online. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. However it's a good idea to consult your owner's manual before you shop for the correct battery for your vehicle. Certain vehicles require a particular size or type that isn't always readily available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before you buy.
Typically, the battery is located on the back of your key fob. It can be removed by prying the case open using the flat-blade screwdriver. It is likely to look like an ordinary coin and will be marked with the battery's size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus marks to ensure that you put the new battery in the correct place. After the replacement battery is installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob in place and test all of the buttons to ensure that they work.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery, it could have been deprogrammed. In this case you'll need to call locksmiths for assistance and it will cost you some more than replacing the battery in your key fob.
Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob if it is damaged or if the battery is dead. Make sure you check out the range of services we offer in your area and schedule an appointment now!
Weak Signals
If your key fob doesn't respond to the buttons on the remote it could be an indication that the signaling is not working correctly. Radio signals are used to communicate between your car and key fob. Weak or inconsistent radio signals can lead to poor performance and range.
One of the first things you should examine is whether the battery of your fob is depleted because this could significantly impact signal sensitivity. Resetting the settings on the fob can also aid in restoring a constant response. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a call to the manufacturer's help line is likely to be the best resource here.
Other factors, like interference from other devices operating at the same frequency can also cause weak signals. Other key fobs as well as wireless communication devices could interfere with the RF (radio-frequency) signals that your key fob transmits to the receiver of your vehicle.
Furthermore physical damage to your key fob can hinder the transmission of signals RF, which may result in poor performance and range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case of the fob could affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not to function properly.
There are a few simple steps you can try to and resolve the issue of weak fob signals, like resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is damaged, it's the time to replace it all over again.
Don't forget to use the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. You should test this option first to see if you can fix the problem before buying another remote. In this instance, it might be time to call an expert auto-locksmith. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Physical Damage
It's not common for key fobs to experience problems from time to time. The majority of 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 key fob in the event that one of your keys ever fails to work.
The most frequent cause for car keys not working is an inactive battery. car key fob repair near me depend on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and can be found at most pharmacies, grocery stores, and other places which sell electronic items. Open the fob's case with a flat-headed screwdriver and gently pull out the battery you have. Replace the battery, ensuring that it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs use CR2032 batteries, but yours may require an alternative kind.
The fob may also stop responding to buttons if it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or a local dealership will usually be able to repair the issue.
Try this trick to fix your fob in the event that none of the above methods work: Disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for about 10 minutes, and then reconnect them in the reverse order. This may cause the system to restart, and in some cases it can fix the issue without additional steps.
While you're experimenting with the fob, make sure to keep it out of water and other potential dangers. The fob is quite sturdy, but you need to take care with it when you want it to last as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting procedures above are helpful you, you may have to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped, trodden on or subjected to other environmental hazards, it could be beyond repair and requires an upgrade. If this is the case, make sure to look around for a deal before making your final choice.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care keys for cars, they may fail to function. It's expensive to replace yours if you lose it and especially in the event that you don't have an alternative. "You might end up paying between $50 and $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by the dealer, and mechanical backups that could cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
A weak battery is one of the most common reasons for a keyfob's stop working. If you are familiar with how to change the battery, or if your owner's manual has instructions, try it yourself. If this 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 why your fob was not functioning in the first place. If your car is old and doesn't include smart technology, you can still save money by recording the key number plate on your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain. This will make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram the new key fob to your car should you require it.
If your key fob is an old smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This can cost more than simply replacing it. The reason is that modern key fobs use rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from getting into the car. And that means the locksmith must have an exclusive programing tool that only the vehicle manufacturer is equipped with, which adds to the overall cost.
In the majority of cases, the whole process will be charged the same time. This includes all costs for reprogramming a new keyfob. This can range from $20 in some stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, depending on the car.