Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are used a great deal and are frequently abused. Sometimes, just a simple repair or replacement is all you need to make them functional again.
The majority of fobs are powered by a flat watch-style batteries, 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 key fob's battery powers the remote you have in your car and, in push-to-start vehicles it will start your engine. As a result, it is crucial to maintain a healthy, working battery. A dead key fob can be an issue when you're in the middle of nowhere. The good news is that a simple, affordable replacement can fix it quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are among the most commonly observed indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. You may also notice the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require additional effort.
A new key fob is available in the auto parts section of a big retailer or online. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Consult your owner's guide before you purchase the correct battery. Certain cars require a specific size or kind of battery that's not always in stock at big-box retailers, so be sure to know the right specs before you purchase.
Typically key car repair is situated on the back of your key fob. It is removed by tearing the case open with a flat-blade screwdriver. It is likely to look like the shape of a small coin, and be marked with the battery's size. Make sure to note the direction the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the new battery is properly placed. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together and test the buttons.
If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may be deprogrammed. In this case, a locksmith will be needed to help you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery of your key fob.
Whether your fob battery is dying or you're having other issues with your fob's key an experienced mechanic such as one from YourMechanic can check and repair it to get you back on the road. Schedule an appointment to see all of the services we offer in your local area.
Weak Signals
If your key fob does not respond to the buttons on the remote, it could indicate that the signaling is not functioning properly. Radio signals are used to communicate between your car and the key fob. Inconsistent or weak radio signals can result in poor performance and a limited range.
Examining the battery level of your fob is a good idea, since it can have a significant impact on signal sensitivity. Resetting the settings on the fob could also help restore a more regular response. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a call to the help line of the manufacturer is probably the best resource here.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, for example, interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Damage to your keyfob's physical structure can also interfere with the transmission of radio signal, which can result in low performance and a limited range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case on the fob can all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote to respond.
There are a few easy steps you can try to and fix the problem of weak fob signals, such as resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn, it may be the right time to replace it.
Don't forget to use the spare remote that came with your car if your primary remote begins to fail. Try this method first to determine if you can fix the problem before purchasing an entirely new remote. If not, it could be the perfect moment to call an expert auto locksmith. They will be able to identify the issue and suggest the best course of actions.
Physical Damage
It's not uncommon for key fobs to have issues from time-to-time. Luckily, the majority of these problems are not difficult or complicated and can be solved with some simple steps. It's important to keep spare batteries or another key fob in the event that one of your keys ever ceases to function.
A dead battery is the main cause of a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They are easily replaced and can be found at most pharmacies and grocery stores. You can remove your fob's shell with an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pull out the battery. Make sure it's not damaged or loose, and then put in an alternative battery. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours might require a different kind.
Your fob could not be responding to buttons if it loses its connection to the vehicle. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including changing the batteries, but is typically a simple issue for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.
If none of the solutions above work, you can try this method: disconnect the batteries from the car and fob for a few minutes and then connect them in reverse order. This could cause the system to restart and in some instances it can fix the issue without further steps.
Keep the fob away from water or other sources of harm while you're trying out new techniques. The fob is a durable device but you need to take care with it to ensure that it lasts for as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above are helpful, you may need to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other extreme environmental conditions, it may be beyond repair and requires an upgrade. If this is the case, be sure to search for a deal prior to making your final choice.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care, it's a fact of the road that car key fobs may sometimes cease to function. It's expensive to replace yours when it is lost, especially if you do not have an extra. "You could end up paying $50 to $100 for a replacement and having it programmed by a dealer, plus 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 device to cease to function. Try changing the battery yourself when you know how, or consult your owner's manual. If this doesn't work, you'll need to call an expert.
A locksmith can help you to find or replace the lost key fob. They'll also probably have an idea of why your fob was not functioning in the first place. And if your vehicle is an older model that has no smart technology built-in, you can save some money by finding the key number plate that is on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain) and recording it in a secure location, such as your wallet or on your phone. If you're looking to change the programming of the key fob of your car the locksmith can perform the task more easily.
If your key fob is an older smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This could cost more than just replacing it. This is because modern key fobs employ rolling-code encryption to stop thieves from getting into the car. That means that the locksmith needs to have a special programing tool that only the car manufacturer is equipped with, which adds to the overall cost.
In most instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, including any costs to reprogram a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle it could cost anywhere from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a car dealer.