Car Key Fob Repairs
Today's key fobs are more than just a way to unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can lead to expensive repair bills when it fails.
It's good to know that the majority of fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries which can be replaced at home. You might find that a simple reset will make your fob work again.
Battery Replacement
The most common reason the key fob ceases to function is due to the battery being dead. This is easy to fix, and it's worth trying before you go spending money on a new fob. You can buy a new button cell battery at a local auto part store or hardware retailer in the event that you already have one. You can also consult your owner's manual (or in the event that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos of people who explain how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery on the specific type of fob you have.
The majority of fobs have two halves that snap togetherYou'll need to pry the sides apart to get to the battery. You'll require a small flat-bladed screwdriver or another tool with a small blade. It may be helpful to look for a notch along the bottom of the fob that you can put your tool in between. You may also want to watch for tiny pieces that might break loose while you work.
Once you have the new battery, place it in the same manner that you removed the previous one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons and the negative (-) the marks on the battery compartment.
You can push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, you might have an issue with your car that requires a professional to fix or replace.
Some key fobs are difficult to open and their contacts could be fragile and easily damaged. In these situations you should consult a specialist in your car or the dealer will likely be your best option. If you need to replace the battery, make sure to be very gentle and adhere to the instructions specifically in your owner's manual. You may be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or a big-box retailer however, you'll need to consult your owner's manual to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle.
Replace the internal key
The majority of key fobs have the physical key mechanical that is hidden within the fob to keep it from being stolen. When the fob battery dies, it leaves an internal key blank which can open doors and trunks (and in some cases, even start certain cars). Most people don't realize that they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries which are readily available in hardware stores and auto parts shops. It is essential to choose the correct type of battery. A wrong battery can harm the circuitry and lead to the fob to fail much earlier.
If you try replacing the battery and discover that the issue is still there it could be a sign something else is going on with your car. Check your owner's manual to see if there's a reset procedure that will bring the fob back to factory-setup. If that doesn't help you'll have to visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in vehicle security systems and fob programming.
Fobs can also malfunction because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are typically placed on the dashboard or near the steering wheel, and they transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car 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 chance that the transmitter isn't working.
It may be required for a professional to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to do the trick, but certain fobs require a special tool or a special piece of equipment that can only be found at a dealer. It's best to have a certified mechanic do this job so that you don't damage the fob or cause injury to yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that is not functioning simply needs a fresh battery. Because they are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is an excellent first step prior to buying an entirely new car key fob.
Alternatively, you may be able to re-program the fob yourself by following some basic steps. This procedure can differ between vehicles, so you should read the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. For example, one key fob may require the ignition to be on while reprogramming it. A key fob might require the key to be inserted multiple times.
The general procedure is very easy. First, make sure the new battery is in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure the new fob is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Insert the old key into the ignition, then turn it ON but do not start the engine. Then, press the lock button on the fob, while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually located in the front of the vehicle above the mirror. In a short period of time the key will signal to the vehicle that it's being programmed by triggering the doors' locks or emitting an emitted sound. This process can be tricky, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and not to over-press the key button.
If the key fob still doesn't work, try reprogramming it again with new batteries. If the issue isn't resolved you should visit your dealer for your car or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional locksmith will have the tools and programming equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or clone an entirely new key if required.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs for around $200-$250, based on the model of vehicle. He's had European models turned away because he lacks the expensive equipment required. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always check with your local dealer to find out the cost.
A New Fob
If your key fob can't be fixed, you could require a new one. Depending on the model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership might be able to assist. The dealership will likely be the most expensive alternative for replacing a fob however, they'll have all of the necessary tools and software to program your car correctly. For a more affordable solution, a variety of locksmiths can provide you with a brand-new car key fob for a much more reasonable price.
It's a good idea to try to reset your current device before you decide to buy an entirely new one. The owner's manual should provide the correct procedure for reset. This is usually a series button presses which restores the factory settings.
It is also recommended to check the owner's guide and warranty information to see whether you can obtain an alternative mobile key repair near me key fob. If your car's warranty is still in effect or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could qualify for a reimbursement of the cost of replacing the fob.
The process of getting a fob can be simple enough however finding the best place to have it done can be a challenge. It is possible to go to the dealer to get this service if you have a newer vehicle and are looking to feel secure knowing that your keyfobs are working properly. If you're looking for a more affordable alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service for an affordable cost.
A locksmith who is professional is a great choice If you're not confident doing this type of work. They are certified and equipped to replace or reprogram most types of car key fobs, and often, they can complete the task quickly. A locksmith can also visit your office or home which is convenient for many. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost keys, which is ideal for those who don't like to leave their cars unattended.