Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Key fobs on modern automobiles are very efficient and are subject to lots of abuse. Many times an easy repair or replacement is all it takes to get them back in working good working order.
Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries. This can be found in hardware and auto parts stores. But before you call an expert, try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The key fob battery powers the remote function of your car. It also, with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. Therefore, it is essential to keep a healthy, working battery. A dead key fob is an issue for anyone traveling. A simple, inexpensive replacement will fix the problem quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are the most common indicators that a battery in a keyfob is dying. It is also possible to be noticing that the buttons on your fob don't function or require any effort to turn on.
You will often find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box retailer or online. They are typically CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Make sure to consult your owner's manual prior to you shop for the right battery. Certain vehicles require a particular size or type of battery, which isn't always available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before you buy.
Typically, the battery is located on the back of your key fob. It can be removed by prying open the case with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. The battery will appear like an ordinary coin, and it will be identified according to its size. Be 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 battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together. Then test the buttons.
It's worth noting that if your key fob continues to not function even after battery replacement, it might be deprogrammed. In this scenario you'll have to contact an expert locksmith, which will cost a bit more than replacing the battery of your key fob.
If the battery in your fob is dying or you're having other issues with your fob's battery, an experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can inspect and repair it to get you back on the road. Be sure to check out all of our services available in your region and book an appointment now!
Weak Signals
If you notice that your key fob isn't responding as you would expect to the buttons on the remote, this could be a sign of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistent signals could cause poor range and performance.
One of the first things you should check is whether or not the battery of your fob is depleted since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings on the fob could also help restore a more constant response. The procedure will differ from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a call to your manufacturer's support line is the best source of information.
Other factors, like interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency, can also contribute to 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 inside your vehicle.
Finally physical damage to your key fob can also interfere with the transmission of RF signals, which may result in poor performance and range. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked buttons, or a bent fob case could interfere with the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not respond.
You can fix the problem by resetting your 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.
Also, don't forget if you have a spare key fob that comes with your vehicle, this can be used instead of the primary remote in the event that it starts to fail. Try this method first to see if it can fix the problem before buying a new remote. If not, it might be the right time to contact a professional auto locksmith. They will be able to identify the problem and recommend the best way to proceed.
Physical Damage
It's not uncommon for key fobs to encounter issues from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these problems are not complicated or a major issue and can be fixed by following a few simple steps. It's also a good idea to have spare batteries or an additional fob in case one of your keys stops working.
repair broken car key is the most frequent 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 are easy to replace and are available at most pharmacies, grocery stores and shops that sell electronics. You can open the case of the fob using a flat-headed screwdriver and gently pull out your existing battery. Make sure it's not loose or damaged and then simply pop in the new battery. The majority of fobs use CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require an alternative type.
Your fob might also stop responding to buttons after losing its connection with your vehicle. This can happen due to a variety of factors, such as changing the batteries, but is generally simple for an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to fix.
If none of the methods above work, try this trick: disconnect the batteries from the car and the fob for a short period of time and then reconnect them in the opposite order. This can force the system to restart and in some instances it can fix the issue without any other steps.
Keep the fob out of water or other sources of damage while you are playing around. The fob is a durable device but you need to treat it with care to make it last as long as it can.
If the suggestions above do not help, it may be time to replace 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 this is the case, you should be sure to look around for a deal before making a final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs will sometimes stop working. If yours is lost, it can be extremely expensive to replace it--especially if you don't have a spare. "You could end up paying $50 or more for an alternative from the dealer and then have it programmed, as well as an additional mechanical backup which could cost you at least another $100," says Mel Yu who is an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most frequent reasons for a key fob's device to stop working is a basic problem, such as a weak battery. You can try changing the battery on your own If you are familiar with the procedure or get instructions from the owner's manual. If that doesn't work, you'll need to contact an expert.
A locksmith can help to find or replace your lost key fob. They will also likely have a good idea of the reason your fob stopped working in the first instance. And if your car is a model older than the one you own and has no built-in smart technology You can save money by finding the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and recording it in a safe place--such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it much easier for a locksmith to reprogram a brand new key fob to your car in the event that you need to do so.
If your key fob is an old smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost more than simply replacing it. The reason is that modern key fobs employ rolling-code encryption to stop thieves from accessing the car. This means that the locksmith has to be equipped with a specific programming tool that is only available to car manufacturers, which increases the cost.
In the majority of cases, the whole service will be billed at the same time. This includes any costs for reprogramming a new keyfob. Based on the car, that can run from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a dealership for cars.
