Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Key fobs on modern automobiles do a lot of work and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. Sometimes, an easy repair or replacement is all that's needed to make them work again.
Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries, which can be found in hardware and auto parts stores. Before calling in a professional, you can do some of the DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery for the key fob power the remote feature in your car and, with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. It is therefore crucial to maintain a working healthy and a good battery. A dead key fob can be a major problem when you're in the middle of nowhere. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can be made to fix it in a short time.
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 fob do not work or require additional effort to activate.
You will often find the latest key fob batteries in the auto parts section of a big box retailer or online. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are available in packs of two or more. However it's a good idea to read the owner's manual before you shop for the correct battery for your device. car keys repair require a particular size or type that is not always available at big-box stores. Make sure to verify before you buy.
Typically the battery is situated on the back of your key fob and is removed by tearing the case open using the flat-blade screwdriver. It is likely to look like a small coin and be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus marks to ensure that you place the new battery properly. After the battery has been replaced then gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together. Then test the buttons.
If your key fob does not work after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this instance it is likely that a locksmith will be required to assist you. This is more expensive than replacing the battery of your key fob.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery has died. Set up an appointment to review all of the services we offer in your region.
Weak Signals
If your key fob doesn't respond to the buttons on the remote it could be an indication that the signaling system is not functioning correctly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistant signals can cause poor performance and range.
One of the first things you should determine is if the battery of your fob is depleted since this can greatly impact signal sensitivity. Resetting the settings of the fob can aid in restoring a more consistent response. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support number is your best source of information.
Other factors, including interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency, can also affect weak signals. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Physical damage to your keyfob can affect the transmission of RF signal, which can result in low performance and a limited range. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked buttons, or a bent fob case can affect the transmission of signals, causing the remote to not respond.
There are a few easy steps you can take to try and resolve the issue of weak fob signals, such as resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn out, it's the time to replace it all over again.
Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. It's worth trying this solution to see if it can solve the issue prior to investing in the new one. If not, this might be the perfect moment to call a professional auto locksmith. They will be able to determine the cause and recommend the best course of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can be troublesome at times. Luckily, the majority of these issues aren't serious or complex and can be fixed with a few easy steps. It's a good idea also to keep spare batteries or another fob on hand in the event that your key stops working.
The most frequent reason for car keys not working is a dead battery. These tiny devices depend on tiny lithium-ion button or coin batteries to function. They are easily replaced and are available in most pharmacies and stores. You can open your fob's case using an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pull out the battery that is in there. Replace the battery, ensuring that it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours might need a different type.
When your fob loses its pairing, it can cease to respond to buttons. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as changing the batteries, but it is typically a simple issue to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to fix.
You can try this trick to solve your fob issue if none of the above methods work: disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for about ten minutes, then reconnect them in the opposite order. This could trigger a reboot within the system and, in some instances this will fix the problem without doing any of the other steps.
Keep the fob clear of water or other sources of damage while you are experimenting. The fob is quite robust, but it's crucial to treat it with care if you want it to last as long as it can.
If none of the troubleshooting techniques above are helpful you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown and trampled or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it could not be repairable and will need a replacement. Look around for the most affordable price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care it's a fact of life that car key fobs can occasionally stop working. If you lose yours, it can be extremely expensive to replace it, particularly when you don't have a spare. "You might end up paying $50 or more to get an alternative from a dealer and get it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup, which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu who is an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
A weak battery is one of the most common reasons for a keyfob to cease to function. Try changing the battery on your own when you know how, or consult the owner's manual. If that doesn't work you'll have to call an expert.
A locksmith will be in a position to assist you in finding your lost fob or get it replaced. A locksmith will likely know the reason your fob stopped working in the first initial place. If your car is old and does not have smart technology built in, you can still save money by recording the number plate on your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain. This will make it much easier for a locksmith to reprogram the new key fob to your car should you need to do it.
If your key fob is an old smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or dealer. This could cost more than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by encryption using rolling-codes, which prevents thieves from getting access to your car. This means that the locksmith must be equipped with a specific programming tool which is only available to car manufacturers, which can increase the cost.
In most instances, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, including any charges to reprogram the new key fob. Depending on the type of vehicle, that can run from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a car dealership.