Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today can do much more than simply unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can lead to expensive repair bills if it breaks.
The good news is that the majority of fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. You might find that a simple reset will make your fob work again.
Battery Replacement
The most frequent reason why a key fob stops working is due to a dead battery. This is easy to repair, and is worth a try before you spend money on a new key fob. Simply take your car to an hardware or auto parts retailer that carries button cell batteries and pick up a replacement. You can also refer to your owner's manual (or, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people explaining how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery on the specific type of fob you have.
You'll need to gently pull away the sides of the majority of fobs in order to access the battery. You'll need a small, flat-bladed screwdriver, or a different tool with a blade that is thin. It might help to look for a notch on the lower edge of the fob that you can wedge your tool between. It is also advisable to watch for tiny pieces that might break loose while working.
When you have your new battery, insert it in the same way that you removed the previous one. The positive (+) side should face the buttons and the negative (-) the marks on the compartment for the battery.
Check the fob to determine whether it is working by pressing a button. If it doesn't work, there may be a problem with your vehicle that needs to be fixed or replaced by a professional.
Some key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases, a car specialist or the dealer will likely be the best choice. If you're in need of replacing batteries, you should be very gentle and follow the instructions that are specific to your owner's manual. You might be able find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer however, you'll need to consult your owner's manual to make sure that it's the right one for your vehicle.
Replace the internal key
The majority of key fobs have an actual mechanical key however, it's hidden within the fob to stop thieves from getting. If the battery of the fob fails it leaves behind a blank internal key that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases, start certain cars). Many people don't realize this however they could save themselves from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob's battery. The flat watch-style batteries are used in most modern fobs. These batteries can be found in hardware and auto parts stores. It is essential to choose the right type of battery. A wrong battery can harm the circuitry and cause the fob's failure much sooner.
If the problem continues to persist after you replace the battery, it could be a sign that there is something else going on in your vehicle. If you have an owner's manual and you're not sure, try to determine if you can use a reset procedure to restore the fob's factory programming. If this doesn't help, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.
Fobs could also fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel or on the dashboard. They transmit signals that allow you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. If you're required to move closer and closer to your car in order to make it work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working.
A professional might need to open the case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually suffice, but some fobs require a specialized tool or special equipment that can only be found at a dealership. This task must be handled by a certified mechanic in order to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. Because these batteries are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's the ideal first step before investing in an entirely new car key fob.
You can also re-program your key fob yourself if you follow a few basic steps. This process can vary between automobiles, so read the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be turned on while reprogramming it. Another key might require the key to be removed and inserted several times.
The procedure is easy. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. After that, put the old key back into the ignition and turn it on to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob at the receiver of the transmission. It is usually located on the front, above the mirror. Within a brief time the key will announce to the vehicle that it's being programmed by cycling the doors' locks or emitting an emitted sound. This can be a difficult process, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and to not over-press the key button.
If the key fob still does not work, try reprogramming it again with new batteries. If the issue is still there, you might want to check with your car dealer or locksmith. A professional will have the tools and programming equipment to reprogram your car's fob, or create the key if needed.
Genesky claims he is able to program newer fobs that range between $200 and $250, depending on the vehicle. He's been denied European models rejected because he lacks the expensive equipment needed. Fortunately, most aftermarket fobs can be programmable however it's best to check with an auto dealer first to determine the price.
How to get a new fob
If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you might need to purchase an entirely new one. Based on the make and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to assist. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but it also has the tools and software required to program your car correctly. Numerous locksmiths who are independent provide a new car key fob at a much lower price.
remote key repair near me is a good thing to try to reset the fob you have before you make the decision to purchase an entirely new one. Your owner's manual should outline the correct procedure for reset, which is usually just a series of button pushes which restores it to factory programming.
You should also look over the owner's guide and warranty information to see whether you can obtain a replacement key fob. If your car's warranty still in effect or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could qualify to receive a reimbursement for the cost of replacing the fob.
Getting a fob is easy enough, but finding the right location to get it done isn't easy. If you own a new vehicle and you want the security from knowing that your key fobs are in good order, you may be better off visiting the dealership for this service. If you're looking for a cheaper alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that can provide the same service at a lower price.
If you're not confident handling this type of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a great option. They're trained and equipped to repair or replace car key fobs of all kinds and do it quickly. Additionally, locksmiths is often able to come to your office or home to do the job which is convenient for some people. They can cut keys and program them on the spot if you've lost them. This is great for those who don't want to leave their car in the garage.