Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are used frequently and are frequently abused. In many cases, a simple repair or replacement is all that's required to get them back in good working order.
Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries, which can be found in hardware stores and auto parts stores. But before you call an expert, you can try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Battery
The key fob battery powers the remote function in your car. It also, in conjunction with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. It is therefore essential to maintain a working healthy and a good battery. A dead key fob is an issue when you're in the middle of nowhere. The good news is that a simple, affordable replacement is able to fix the issue quickly.
The most frequent sign that a key fob battery is failing is the decrease in signal strength and range. You may also notice the buttons on your key fob are not working or require additional effort.
A new key fob is available in the auto parts section of a major retailer or online. 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 shop for the right battery. Certain cars require a specific size or type of battery that isn't always in stock at big-box retailers So, make sure you be aware of the correct specifications before you purchase.
Typically, the battery is located on the back of your key fob. It is removed by tearing the case open with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. It is likely to look like an ordinary coin and will be labeled with the battery size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus marks so that you can put the new battery in the correct place. After the replacement battery is inserted, gently snap both pieces of the fob in place and test each button to make sure they function.
If your key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this case, a locksmith will be required to assist. This is more expensive 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 has failed. Make sure to look over all of our services available in your area and schedule an appointment today!
Weak Signals
If your key fob does not respond to the buttons of the remote it could be an indication that the signaling system is not functioning properly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor range and performance.
One of the first things you should check is whether or not the battery of your fob is depleted because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can also aid in restoring a constant response. The process varies from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or call to the manufacturer's help line is likely to be the best resource here.
Other factors can cause weak fob signals, for example, interference from other devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs as well as wireless communication devices could interfere with the RF (radio-frequency) signals your key fob transmits to the receiver of your vehicle.
Additionally, physical damage to your key fob can hinder the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in range and performance. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked button or a bent case can affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.
You can attempt to resolve the issue by resetting the fob's settings, or by replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn, it may be the right time to replace it.
Don't forget to utilize the spare remote that came with your car if your primary remote begins to fail. It's worth trying this option to determine if it resolves the issue before you invest in the new one. If not, it could be the best moment to call an experienced auto locksmith. They will be able to diagnose the problem and suggest the best course of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can be troublesome from time to time. Most of the time, these issues aren't complex or difficult to fix and can be solved by following a few easy steps. It's a good idea to keep spare batteries or a different fob on hand in case your key stops working.
A dead battery is the main cause of a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion buttons or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced and can be found at most pharmacies and stores. You can remove your fob's casing using a flat head screwdriver and gently remove the battery that is in there. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged, loose or damaged. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours might need a different type.
Your fob could not be responding to buttons when it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This could be due to a variety of factors, including changing the batteries, but it is typically a simple issue for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to fix.
If none of the strategies above work, you can try this trick: disconnect the batteries from the car and the fob for a short period of time, then reconnect the two in a reverse order. This may cause the system to restart and in some instances it can fix the issue without further steps.
Keep the fob out of water or other sources of harm while you're experimenting. The fob is tough however, you must take care with it to make it last as long as it can.
If none of the troubleshooting procedures above help you, you may have to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped, trodden on or subjected to other environmental hazards, it could be beyond repair and may require an upgrade. If that's the case, be sure to look around for a deal prior to making a final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care keys to cars may fail to function. It's expensive to replace yours in the event that you lose it, especially when you don't have an extra. "You may end up paying between $50 and $100 for a new one 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.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob's device to not function is a simple problem, such as a weak battery. You can try replacing the battery yourself when you know how, or refer to your owner's manual. If this doesn't work, you'll need to contact an expert.
car key repair near me can help you to find or replace the lost key fob. A locksmith will probably know why your fob stopped functioning in the first place. If your car is old and doesn't come with smart technology however, you can save money by recording the key number plate on your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain. This will make it much easier for the locksmith to reprogram the new key fob for your car should you need to do so.
If your current key fob is a smart key of the present it will require a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it and get a new one created which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that the locksmith has to have a special software program that is available only to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.
In the majority of cases, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any charges to reprogram the new key fob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could cost anywhere from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a car dealership.