Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized often and are often misused. In many cases just a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to restore them to working in good condition.
The majority of fobs are powered by a flat watch-style batteries, which is readily available in hardware and auto parts stores. Before you call an expert, try a few DIY fixes!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery of the key fob powers your remote in your car and in push-to start cars, it can start your engine. As a result, it is crucial to maintain a healthy, working battery. When you're out and about and your key fob is not working, it can cause a lot of trouble. The good news is that a simple, affordable replacement is able to fix the issue quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are the most frequent indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. You may also find that the buttons on your fob don't function or require any effort to be activated.
You will often find the latest key fob batteries in the auto parts section of a large box store or on the internet. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. Make sure to consult your owner's manual prior to you purchase the correct battery. Certain cars require a certain 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. It is removed by tearing open the case with the flat-blade screwdriver. The battery will look similar to an ordinary coin, and it will be labeled based on its size. Make sure to note the direction the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the battery you are replacing is positioned correctly. After the battery has been replaced and the fob is closed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together, and test the buttons.
It's worth noting that, in the event that your key fob continues to stop functioning even after a battery replacement, it might have been deprogrammed. In this instance it is likely that a locksmith will be needed to help you. This will cost more than replacing the battery in the key fob.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery is dead. Schedule an appointment to see the range of services we offer in your region.
Weak Signals
If your key fob does not respond to the buttons on the remote, it could be a sign that the signaling isn't working properly. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals can cause poor performance and range.
One of the first things you should examine is whether the battery of your fob is depleted because this could significantly impact signal sensitivity. It's also advisable to reset the fob's settings that can help restore the same 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 operating at the same frequency can also affect weak signals. Power lines as well as other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Finally, relevant website to your key fob may hinder the transmission of RF signals, which may result in poor range and performance. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or bent fob case can all affect the transmission of signals, causing the remote to fail to respond.
There are a few easy steps you can try to and resolve the issue of weak fob signals such as resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is old and damaged, it's the time to replace it all over again.
Don't forget to remember that if you have a spare key fob that comes with your vehicle, it could be used as a replacement for the primary remote in case it starts to fail. You should try this solution first to see if you can solve the issue prior to buying another remote. In this case it could be the right time to call an expert auto-locksmith. They'll be able to determine the cause and suggest the most effective solution.
Physical Damage
Key fobs may have issues from time to time. Most of these issues aren't complex or severe and can be fixed by following a few easy steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or another key fob in the event that one of your keys stops working.
The most common reason for car keys not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They are easy to replace and are available at most pharmacies, grocery stores and places that sell electronic products. You can open your fob's case using an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pull out the battery. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged, loose or damaged. Most fobs require CR2032 batteries. However, yours may require a different kind.
Your fob might not be responding to buttons if it loses its connection to the vehicle. This could be due to many factors like changing the batteries. However an auto Locksmith or a local dealer is usually able to fix it.
If none of the strategies above work, try this trick: disconnect the battery from the car and fob for a short period of time and then connect them in reverse order. This can force a restart within the system and in some cases it will solve the issue without having to do any of the other steps.
Keep the fob clear of water or other sources of damage while you are experimenting. A fob can be pretty robust, but it's crucial to treat it with care when you want it to last as long as it can.
If all of the above troubleshooting suggestions do not help, it may 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 damaged beyond repair and requires an upgrade. If that's the case, be sure to search for a deal before making a final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care, it's a fact of life that car key fobs may occasionally fail to function. If you lose yours it could be very expensive to replace it, particularly if you don't have a spare. "You may end up spending $50 or more to get an alternative from the dealer and 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's device to stop working is a simple issue, like a weak battery. If you are aware of how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual contains instructions, you can try it yourself. If that doesn't solve the issue, it's time to get help from an expert.
A locksmith can help you replace or find your lost key fob. A locksmith will likely know the reason your fob stopped working in the first initial place. If your car is older and does not include smart technology however, you can save money by recording the number plate of your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind a keychain with an ornamental design. This will make it much easier for a locksmith to reprogram the new key fob for your car if you ever require it.
If your key fob is an old smart key, it'll need to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or car dealer. This could cost more than just replacing it. This is because modern key fobs employ rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that locksmiths must be equipped with a specific programing tool that is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.
In most instances, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes the cost of programming the new key fob. This can range from $20 at some shops to more than $200 at car dealerships, based on the model of vehicle.