Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized frequently and are often misused. In most cases, just a simple repair or replacement is all you need to get them working again.
Most fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to find in auto parts retailers. Before calling a professional, do a few DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The battery in the key fob powers the remote function in your car. It also, with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain an efficient, functioning battery. A dead key fob is a major problem when you're traveling. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can be made to fix it in a short time.
The most common indication that a key fob battery is depleting is the decrease in signal strength and range. You might also notice that the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require more effort.
A new key fob is available in the auto parts section of a major retailer or on the internet. They are typically CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. However it's best to read the owner's manual before shopping for the correct battery for your device. Certain vehicles require a certain size or type of battery that's not always readily available at big-box retailers, so be sure to know the specifications prior to you buy.
Typically, the battery is located in the back of your key fob and is removed by tearing open the case with the flat-blade screwdriver. The battery will look similar to a small coin and be labeled based on its size. Be sure to note which way the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the new battery is properly placed. After the battery has been replaced then gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together. Then test the buttons.
It's important to note that in the event that your key fob continues to stop functioning even after battery replacement, it might be deprogrammed. In this instance you'll need to call an expert locksmith, which will cost a little more than simply replacing the key fob battery.
The skilled mechanics at YourMechanic are able to repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery has failed. Set up an appointment to review all the services we offer in your area.
Weak Signals
If your key fob isn't able to respond to the buttons of the remote it could be an indication that the signaling system is not working properly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, and weak or inconsistent signals could 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's also worth resetting the settings on your fob that can help restore a more consistent response from the car. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or a phone call to the helpline of the manufacturer is probably the best guide here.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, including interference from other devices operating at the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines and 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.
Furthermore physical damage to your key fob may hinder the transmission of RF signals, which can result in poor performance and range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent fob case could affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.
There are a few simple steps you can follow to try and solve the issue of weak fob signals, for example, resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn out, it might be the right time to replace it.
Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that came with your car if your primary remote starts to fail. Try this method first to see if it can solve the issue prior to buying an entirely new remote. In this situation, it might be an appropriate time to consult a professional auto-locksmith. They can identify the issue and recommend the best way to proceed.
Physical Damage
It's not common for key fobs to encounter issues from time to time. The majority of these problems aren't complicated or serious and can be resolved with just a few steps. It's important to have spare batteries or another fob available in case one of your keys ever ceases to function.
A dead battery is the most common reason why a key fob in a car is not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced and can be found in most pharmacies and stores. You can open your fob's casing using a flat head screwdriver and gently remove the battery that is in there. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged or loose. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours may require a different type.
If car remote key repair near me loses pairing, it could stop responding to buttons. This can be caused by many factors, such as changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or a local dealer is usually able to solve the issue.
You can try this method to fix your fob when none of the other methods work: remove the battery from both the fob and the car for around ten minutes, then reconnect them in the opposite order. This can force the system to restart and in some cases, this will fix the issue without any other steps.
Keep the fob out of water or other sources of damage while you are trying out new techniques. A fob is durable, but you should take care of it to ensure it lasts for as long as it is possible to.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above are helpful, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other harsh environmental conditions it could be beyond repair and may require a replacement. Shop around to find the best deal.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care keys for cars, they may fail to function. It's expensive to replace yours when it is lost and especially when you don't have an alternative. "You may end up spending $50 or more for an equivalent replacement from the dealer and then have it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob to stop working is a simple issue, such as a weak battery. If you are aware of how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll need to call an expert.
A locksmith is able to help you find the lost fob or have it replaced. They'll also probably have an idea of the reason your fob stopped working in the first instance. If your car is a model older than the one you own and has no smart technology built-in it is possible to save cash by locating the key number plate that is on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and recording it in a secure location, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This can make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a new key fob to your car should you need to do so.
If your existing key fob is a smart key of the present, you'll have to visit an auto dealer or locksmith to deprogram it before getting a new one made, which can be more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from getting access to the car. And that means the locksmith must have an exclusive programming tool that only the car manufacturer has, which adds to the overall cost.
In the majority of cases, the whole service will be billed at one time. This includes any charges for reprogramming a new keyfob. It can cost anywhere from $20 in some stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, based on the vehicle.