Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized a great deal and are often abused. Sometimes an easy repair or replacement is all it takes to get them back in good working order.
The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries, which are easy to find in auto parts retailers. Before you call in an expert, try a few DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery for the key fob power the remote function of your car and, with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. As a result, it is crucial to maintain an efficient, functioning battery. When you're on the go and your key fob is not working, it can be a huge problem. A simple, inexpensive replacement will fix the problem quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are the most common signs that a keyfob battery is failing. You might also notice that the buttons on your key fob are not working or require extra effort.
A new key fob can be found in the auto part section of a major retailer or on the internet. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you decide on the best battery. Some cars require a specific size or type of battery, which is not always available at big-box stores. Make sure to verify before you buy.
Typically the battery is situated in the back of your key fob and is removed by tearing the case open with the flat-blade screwdriver. It is usually shaped like a small coin and be labelled with the battery's size. Make sure to note the way the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the battery you are replacing is positioned correctly. 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, when your key fob is unable to stop functioning even after a battery replacement, it could be deprogrammed. In this scenario you'll need to call locksmiths for assistance and it will cost you a little more than simply replacing the key fob battery.
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 the range of services we provide in your area.
Weak Signals
If your key fob isn't able to respond to the buttons of the remote it could indicate that the signaling is not functioning correctly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistent signals can result in poor range and performance.
One of the first things you should determine is if your fob's battery is insufficient, as this can significantly impact signal sensitivity. It's also worth resetting 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 number is your best resource.
Other factors, such as interference from other devices that operate at the same frequency can also cause weak signals. 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 uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Finally physical damage to your key fob could also interfere with the transmission of signals RF, which could result in a decrease in range and performance. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked button, or a bent fob case can all interfere with the transmission of signals, causing the remote to fail to respond.
You can attempt to resolve the issue by resetting your fob's settings or by replacing the battery. However, if your fob is old and worn out, it's time to replace it altogether.
Lastly, don't forget that if you have an extra key fob which is included with your vehicle, it could be used instead of the primary remote if it starts to fail. It's worth trying this option to see if it can solve the issue prior to investing in an entirely new one. In this situation, it might be the right time to contact a professional auto-locksmith. They can identify the issue and recommend the best course of action.
Physical Damage
It's not unusual for key fobs to have issues from time-to-time. Most of the time, these issues aren't complex or serious and can be resolved with just a few steps. It's recommended to keep spare batteries or an additional fob in case one of your keys stops working.
The most frequent cause for the car key fob not working is an inactive battery. relevant web site on tiny lithium-ion coin or button batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and are available at most pharmacies, grocery stores and places which sell electronic items. You can open the case of the fob using an screwdriver that is flat, and gently pry out your existing battery. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs utilize CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require a different kind.
When your fob loses its pairing, it can cease to respond to buttons. This can happen due to a variety of factors, such as changing the batteries, however it is generally simple to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to fix.
Try this trick to solve your fob issue if none of the above methods work: remove the battery from both the car and the fob for around ten minutes, and then reconnect them in the 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.
While you're testing the fob, be sure to keep it out of water and other possible damage sources. A fob can be pretty durable, but it's important to treat it with care when you want it to last as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting techniques above work, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped, trampled on or exposed to extreme conditions, it might not be able to be repaired and will need a replacement. Find the most competitive price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care, it's a fact of the road that car key fobs may occasionally cease to function. If yours is lost, it can be extremely expensive to replace it, especially when 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, plus an electronic backup 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. If you know how to change the battery, or if the owner's guide has instructions, try it yourself. If this doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to call in an expert.
A locksmith is able to help you find the lost fob or have it replaced. They'll also probably have a good idea of the reason your fob stopped working in the first place. If your car is older and does not come with smart technology, you can still save money by recording the key number plate on 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 of your car the locksmith can do it more easily.
If the key fob you have is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit a car dealership or locksmith to deprogram it before getting an entirely new one which is more expensive than simply replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by encryption using rolling-codes which stops thieves from gaining access to the car. And that means the locksmith needs to have a special programing tool that only the car manufacturer is equipped with, which adds to the overall expense.
In most cases, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any costs to reprogram a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle the cost can range from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a car dealer.