Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are utilized frequently and are often abused. Many times an easy repair or replacement is all that's required to restore them to good working in good condition.
The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries that can be found in auto parts stores. However, before calling a professional, try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Battery
The battery for the key fob power the remote function in your car. It also, with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. This is why it is crucial to maintain an active, healthy battery. When you're on the move and your key fob is not working, it could be a major issue. The good news is that a simple, affordable replacement can fix it quickly.
The most frequent sign that a key fob's battery is depleting is the decrease in signal strength and range. You might also be noticing that the buttons on your fob do not work or require additional effort to turn on.
You can often find a new key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box store or on the internet. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you shop for the right battery. Some cars require a specific size or type that is not always available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before purchasing.
Typically the battery is placed on the back of your key fob. It can be removed by prying the case open with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. It is likely to look like the shape of a small coin, and be marked with the battery's size. Be sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols to ensure that you insert the battery 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.
If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this instance you'll have to contact a locksmith for help which will cost a little more than simply replacing the key fob battery.
Whether your fob battery is dying or you're having other issues with your key fob, an experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can check and repair it to get you back on the road. 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 of the remote it could be an indication that the signaling isn't working correctly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals could cause poor performance and range.
Examining the battery level of your fob is a good idea because it could have a significant impact on the sensitivity of the signal. It is also recommended to reset the fob's settings that can help restore a more consistent response from the car. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a phone call to the manufacturer's help line is likely to be the best source of information here.
Other factors, including interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency, can also contribute to weak signals. Other key fobs as well as wireless communication devices could interfere with the signal RF (radio-frequency) signals your key fob transmits to connect to the vehicle's receiver.
Additionally physical damage to your key fob could affect the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A blown fuses, a broken or cracked button or a bent case on the fob can affect signal transmission and cause the remote not to function properly.
You can try to solve the issue by resetting the fob's settings, or by replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn, it may be time to replace it.
Also, don't forget if you have a spare key fob that comes with your vehicle, it can be used in place of the primary remote if it starts to fail. It's a good idea to try this method to determine if it resolves the issue prior to investing in the new one. In this situation, it might be an appropriate time to consult an expert auto-locksmith. They will be able to determine the cause and suggest the best course of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems from time to time. Fortunately, most of these problems are not complicated or a major issue and can be resolved with a few easy steps. It's also a good idea to keep spare batteries or an additional fob on hand in the event that your key fails to function.
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 are easily replaced and can be purchased at most pharmacies and stores. You can access the fob's casing using a flat head screwdriver and gently pry out the existing battery. Make sure it's not damaged or loose and then simply pop in an alternative battery. The majority of fobs use CR2032 batteries. However, yours may require a different kind.
When your fob loses its pairing, it can stop responding to buttons. This could be due to many factors like changing the batteries. However key fob repair near me or a local dealership is usually able to repair the issue.
If none of the strategies above work, try this trick: unplug the batteries from the car and fob for a short period of time and then reconnect them in the opposite order. This could cause the system to restart and in some cases, this will fix the issue without further steps.
Keep the fob clear of water or other sources of damage while playing around. Fobs can be quite sturdy, but you need to treat it with care when you want it to last as long as it can.
If the above troubleshooting tips do not help, it may be time to think about replacing your key fob. If it's been dropped or trampled upon, or exposed to extreme environmental conditions, it could not be repairable and will need an upgrade. If this is the case, you should be sure to search to find a bargain before making a final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care keys for cars, they can fail at times. It's expensive to replace yours in the event that you lose it particularly if you do not have an alternative. "You may end up paying $50 - $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by the dealer, as well as mechanical backups 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 are familiar with how to replace the battery, or if the owner's guide has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll need to contact an expert.
A locksmith can assist you replace or find your lost key fob. A locksmith will likely know the reason why 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 key's number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind an ornamental keychain. If you need to reprogram the key fob in your car the locksmith can do it more easily.
If your key fob is an old smart key, it will need to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This could cost more than replacing it. This is because modern key fobs employ rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that the locksmith has to use a special software program which is only available to car manufacturers, which increases the cost.
In most cases, the entire service will be charged at one time. This includes any costs for reprogramming a new keyfob. It can cost anywhere from $20 in certain stores to over $200 at dealerships for cars, based on the vehicle.