Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs in modern vehicles do a lot of work and are subject to a lot of abuse. Sometimes, a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to bring them back into working good working order.
The majority of fobs are powered by a flat watch-style batteries, which is readily available in auto parts and hardware stores. Before calling in a professional, you can do some DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The key fob battery powers the remote function in your car. It also, with push-to start vehicles, permits it to start your engine. As a result, it is critical to maintain an active, healthy battery. car key repair cost can be an issue when you're traveling. A simple, inexpensive replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The most frequent sign that a key fob's battery is dying is the decrease in signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on your fob do not work or require extra effort to be activated.
A new key fob is available in the auto part section of a major retailer or on the internet. Typically, they are CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. However, it's a good idea to read the owner's manual before shopping for the right battery for your device. Some cars require a particular size or type of battery that isn't always in stock at big-box retailers, so be sure to be aware of the correct specifications before you buy.
Typically the battery is placed on the back of your key fob. It is removed by tearing the case open using an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. It is usually shaped like a small coin and be labelled with the battery's size. Be sure to note which direction the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the new battery is positioned correctly. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together and test the buttons.
It's important to note that in the event that your key fob continues to not function even after a battery replacement, it could be deprogrammed. In this scenario you'll have to contact locksmiths for assistance, which will cost a little more than simply replacing the battery in your key fob.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob if it's damaged or the battery has failed. Make sure you check out all of our services available in your area and schedule an appointment today!
Weak Signals
If you notice that your key fob isn't responding as you would expect to the buttons on the remote, this could be a sign of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistent signals can cause poor range and performance.
One of the first things you should examine is whether your fob's battery is insufficient because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can also help restore a more constant response. The procedure differs from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a call to the helpline of the manufacturer will likely be your best source of information here.
Other factors can cause weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices operating at 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.
Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob could affect the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked buttons or a bent case can affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not respond.
You can attempt to fix the problem by resetting your fob's settings, or by replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is old and damaged, it's time to replace it altogether.
Lastly, don't forget that if you have an extra key fob that is part of your vehicle, it can be used instead of the primary remote in case it starts to fail. You should test this option first to see if you can resolve the issue before buying an entirely new remote. If not, it might be the perfect moment to call an expert auto locksmith. They can identify the problem and recommend the best course of actions.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can be troublesome occasionally. Most of these issues are not complex or serious and can be resolved with a few simple steps. It's also a good idea to have spare batteries or another key fob in the event that one of your keys ever ceases to function.
The most frequent reason for car keys not working is an inactive battery. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. These batteries are easily replaceable and can be found at most pharmacies and grocery stores. You can open the case of the fob using a flat-headed screwdriver, and gently pry out the battery you have. Ensure that it is not damaged or loose and then simply pop in a new battery. The majority of fobs use CR2032 batteries, but yours might require an alternative type.
The fob may also stop responding to buttons if it loses its connection with your vehicle. This can be caused by a variety of factors like changing the batteries. However an auto Locksmith or a local dealership is usually able to solve the issue.
If none of the solutions above work, try this trick: disconnect the batteries from the car and the fob for a few minutes and then connect them in a reverse order. This may cause the system to restart, and in some instances, this will fix the issue without additional steps.
Keep the fob clear of water or other sources of damage while you are experimenting. Fobs can be quite sturdy, but you need to treat it with care if you want it to last as long as you can.
If the above troubleshooting suggestions aren't working, it could be time to think about replacing your key fob. If it's been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other extreme environmental conditions, it could be beyond repair and requires a replacement. Look around for the best deal.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care it's a fact in the road that car key fobs can occasionally stop working. It's expensive to replace yours in the event that you lose it and especially if you do not have an alternative. "You might end up paying $50 to $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 among the most frequent reasons for a keyfob to stop working. Try changing the battery on your own when you know how, or consult your owner's manual. If that doesn't work, you'll have to call an expert.
A locksmith will be able to help you find your lost fob or get it replaced. A locksmith will likely know the reason your fob stopped working in the first in the first place. And if your vehicle is an older model with no built-in smart technology, you can save some money by finding the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain) and recording it in a secure place, such as in your wallet or on your phone. If you need to reprogram the key fob in your car the locksmith can do it more easily.
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 and this can be more expensive than replacing it. That's because modern key fobs employ rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from accessing the car. That means that the locksmith must have an exclusive programing tool that only the car manufacturer is equipped with, which adds to the overall expense.
In the majority of instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, including the cost of programming a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle the cost can range from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a dealership for cars.