Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Modern car key fobs are used a great deal and are often misused. Many times just a simple repair or replacement is all that's required to restore them to working order.
Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries, which is readily available in auto parts and hardware stores. Before you call an expert, try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery in the key fob powers the remote function in your car. It also, in conjunction with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. It is therefore essential to keep a functioning and healthy battery. A dead key fob can be a major problem when you're on-the-go. A simple, affordable replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The most frequent sign that a key fob battery is depleting is the loss of signal strength and range. It is also possible to find that the buttons on your fob don't work or require additional effort to turn on.
A new key fob can be found in the auto part section of a large retailer or on the internet. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. However it's a good idea to check your owner's manual prior to purchasing the right battery for your fob. Certain vehicles require a certain size or type of battery that isn't always available at big-box retailers, so be sure to know the specifications prior to you buy.
The battery is typically located in the back of the key fob. It can be removed using the flat-bladed screwdriver, by prying the case open. The battery will appear like tiny coins and be labeled according to its size. Make sure to note the way the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the new battery is placed correctly. After the replacement battery has been installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob together. Then test all of the buttons to ensure they work.
It's worth noting that if your key fob continues to not function even after battery replacement, it could be deprogrammed. In this case, a locksmith will be needed to help you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery of your key fob.
If your fob's battery is failing or you're experiencing 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. Schedule an appointment to see the range of services we offer in your local area.
Weak Signals
If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to the buttons on the remote, it could be an indication of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob are dependent on radio signals to communicate, and weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor range and performance.
One of the first things to determine is if your fob's battery is low since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of your signal. It's also advisable to reset the settings on your fob, which can help to bring back the same response from the car. The procedure will differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a phone call to your manufacturer's support line is the best source of information.
Other factors, such as interference from other devices operating at 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 that your key fob transmits to the receiver of your vehicle.
Physical damage to your keyfob can also affect the transmission of RF signal, leading to poor performance and range. A blown fuses, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case on the fob may affect signal transmission and cause the remote not to respond.
There are a few simple steps you can take to try and fix the problem of weak fob signals like resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. However, if your fob is worn out, it's probably time to replace it completely.
Don't forget to use the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. You should test this option first to see if it can solve the issue prior to buying an entirely new remote. In this case it could be the right time to call a professional auto-locksmith. They can identify the problem and recommend the best way to proceed.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems occasionally. 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 important to have spare batteries or an additional fob in case one of your keys ever stops working.
The most frequent reason for the car key fob not working is a dead battery. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion buttons or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced easily and are available in most pharmacies, grocery stores and shops that sell electronics. You can remove your fob's case using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently remove the existing battery. Make sure it's not damaged or loose, and then put in the new battery. Most fobs use CR2032 batteries, but yours may require a different type.
Your fob could also stop responding to buttons if it loses its connection to the car. 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 solutions above work, you can try this trick: unplug the battery from the car and the fob for a few minutes and then reconnect them in a reverse order. This may cause the system to reboot, and in certain cases it can fix the issue without any other steps.
Keep the fob out of water or other sources of damage while you are experimenting. A fob is durable but you need to take care with it to make it last as long as it can.
If key repairs of the troubleshooting techniques above work you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If it has been dropped, trampled on or exposed to extreme environmental conditions, it could not be repairable and will need an upgrade. If this is the case, be sure to shop around to find a bargain before making a final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact in the road that car key fobs can sometimes stop working. If you lose yours it could be very expensive to replace it--especially when you don't have a spare. "You may end up spending $50 or more for an equivalent replacement from a dealer and get it programmed, as well as a new mechanical backup which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu who is an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob's to stop working is a basic issue, like a weak battery. If similar web-site are familiar with how to change the battery, or if the owner's guide has instructions, you can try it yourself. If this doesn't work, you'll need to call an expert.
A locksmith can help to replace or locate the lost key fob. They'll also have an idea of the reason why your fob stopped functioning in the first place. And if your car is an older model with no smart technology built-in You can save money by finding the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and recording it in a safe place--such as your wallet or on your phone. If you're in need of reprogramming the key fob of your car locksmith is able to perform the task more easily.
If your key fob is an older smart key, it'll need to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or dealer. This can cost more than just replacing it. The reason is that modern key fobs use rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from accessing the car. This means that the locksmith has to have a special software program which is only available to car manufacturers, which can increase the cost.
In the majority of instances, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any costs to reprogram the new key fob. This can range from $20 in certain stores to more than $200 at dealerships for cars, based on the model of vehicle.