Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs in modern vehicles perform a lot of work and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. Often an easy repair or replacement is all it takes to make them work again.
The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries that are readily available in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. But before you call an expert, try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Battery
The battery in the key fob's remote powers your remote in your car and, in push-to-start vehicles, it can start your engine. It is therefore essential to keep a functioning healthy and a good battery. When you're out and about, a dead key fob can be a huge problem. A simple, inexpensive replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The most obvious sign that a key fob battery is dying is the loss of signal strength and range. You might also notice that the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require extra effort.
You can often find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box store or on the internet. 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 prior to purchasing the correct battery for your fob. Certain cars require a certain size or type of battery, which isn't always available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before purchasing.
Typically the battery is placed in the back of your key fob and is removed by tearing the case open with the flat-blade screwdriver. It is likely to look like a small coin and be labeled with the battery size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols to ensure that you insert the battery correctly. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together and test the buttons.
If your key fob does not work after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this case, you'll need to contact an expert locksmith, which will cost a bit more than replacing the battery in your key fob.
Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic 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 now!
Weak Signals
If you find that your key fob isn't responding to the buttons on the remote, it could be a sign of a problem with the signaling. Your car and key fob are dependent on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals can cause poor range and performance.
Examining the battery level of your fob is a good idea, since it can have a significant impact on the sensitivity of your signal. It is also recommended to reset the settings of your fob, which can help to bring back a more consistent response from the car. The procedure may differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's manual or a phone call to your manufacturer's support line is the best guide.
Other factors can cause weak fob signals, such as 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 interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
The physical damage to your keyfob can also affect the transmission of RF signal, leading to lower performance and less range. car key repair near me damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked buttons or bent fob case can interfere with the transmission of signals, causing the remote to not respond.
There are some simple steps you can try to and resolve the issue of weak fob signals for example, resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn, it could be time to replace it.
Don't forget to remember that if you have an extra key fob which is part of your vehicle, this can be used as a replacement for the primary remote in the event that it begins to fail. It's a good idea to try this method to determine if it resolves the issue prior to investing in an entirely new one. If not, it could be the best moment to call an experienced auto locksmith. They will be able to identify the issue and recommend the best course of action.
Physical Damage
It's not unusual for key fobs to have problems from time to time. Most of the time, these issues aren't complex or serious and can be resolved by following a few easy steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or even another fob available in case one of your keys fails to work.
A dead battery is the most common cause of a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced easily and can be found in most pharmacies, grocery stores and places that sell electronic products. You can access the fob's case using a flat head screwdriver and gently remove the battery. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged or loose. The majority of fobs use CR2032 batteries, but yours may require a different kind.
Your fob might not be responding to buttons if it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including changing the batteries, but it is generally simple for an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to resolve.
You can try this method to solve your fob issue if none of the above methods work: remove the battery from both the fob and the car for about ten minutes, then reconnect them in the opposite order. This could trigger a reboot within the system, and in some cases, this alone 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 out of water and other possible sources of damage. The fob is quite durable, but it's important to treat it with care when you want it to last as long as possible.
If the suggestions above aren't working, it could 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 competitive price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care keys to cars may fail to function. If yours is lost, it can be extremely expensive to replace it, especially if you don't have a spare. "You may end up paying between $50 and $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by a dealer, and mechanical backups that could cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
A weak battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob's device to cease to function. You can try changing the battery on your own when you know how, or consult the owner's manual. If this doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to get help from an expert.
A locksmith will be capable of helping you locate the lost fob or have it replaced. A locksmith will probably know why your fob stopped functioning in the first initial place. If your vehicle is an older model that has no built-in smart technology it is possible to save money by finding the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and recording it in a secure place, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it much easier for a locksmith to reprogram a brand new key fob for your car in the event that you need to do it.
If your current key fob is a modern smart key and you want to change it, you'll need to go to a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it before getting an entirely new one and this can be more expensive than simply replacing it. That's because modern key fobs employ rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from getting into the car. This means that the locksmith has to be equipped with a specific programing tool that is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.
In the majority of instances, the entire process will be charged one time. This includes any costs to reprogramme a new keyfob. This can range from $20 at some shops to over $200 at car dealerships, based on the vehicle.