Car Key Fob Repairs

Today's key fobs do a lot more than unlock and start vehicles. This extra complexity can cause costly repair costs if it breaks.

It's good to know that a majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries that can be replaced at home. You may even find that a reset will get yours working again.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason the key fob ceases to function is because of the battery being dead. It's a simple fix, and it's worth a try before you spend money on a new key fob. You can buy an additional button cell battery at your local auto parts store or hardware retailer If you own one. You can also refer to the owner's manual (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to get specific instructions on how to replace and open the battery inside your fob.

Most fobs come with two halves that snap togetheryou'll have to gently break the sides to get to the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or some other tool that has a flat, thin blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the lower edge of the fob that you can use to wedge your tool between. It is also advisable to be on the lookout for small pieces that may fall off while working.

Once you have your new battery, you can insert it the same way that you removed the previous one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned with the marks inside the battery compartment of your fob.

You can push a button to test the fob. If it isn't working, there might be a problem with your vehicle that needs to be fixed or replaced by a specialist.

Some key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts may be fragile and easily corrosion-prone. In these situations, the best option is to consult a car specialist or a dealer. If you're in need of replacing a battery, try to be very gentle and follow the instructions specifically in your owner's manual. You might be able find a similar battery at a discounter store 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

To prevent theft, most key fobs are equipped with an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. When the battery in the fob fails, a blank key is left behind that can be used to open doors and trunks. In some cases, this key can even start certain cars. Most people aren't aware of this however, they can avoid from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob battery. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries which are easy to find in auto parts stores and hardware shops. It is essential to choose the correct type of battery. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry, causing the fob's failure much sooner.

If the issue persists after replacing the battery, it could be a sign that something else is going on with your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to determine if you have a reset procedure that can restore the fob's factory-setup. If this doesn't help you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that is specialized in vehicle security systems and fob programming.

Fobs could also fail because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are typically placed on the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they send signals that allow you to open and start your car with the fob. You may need to get closer to the car in order to enable it.

A professional may need to open the case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually do the job however some fobs come with complicated release mechanisms that require a special tool or specialized equipment available only through a dealer. This is a job that should be performed by a certified mechanic to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply requires a new battery. Because they are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is an excellent first step prior to purchasing the purchase of a new car key fob.

Alternately, you might be able to program the fob on your own by following some basic steps. The procedure may differ for different vehicles, so you should refer to the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. One key fob might require that the ignition switch be turned on while changing the program. Another key might require the key to be removed and inserted multiple times.

The basic procedure is simple. First, ensure that the new battery is securely in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new fob is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Place the old key in the ignition, then turn it on, but don't start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob toward the receiver for transmission. This is typically located on the front, above the mirror. Within a brief time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's been programmed by turning off the doors locks or emitting an emitted sound. This is a challenging procedure, so pay attention to timing and don't over-press the button.

If the key fob does not work after reprogramming, try using new batteries. If the problem persists you may want to visit your local dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or design a new one, if required.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for $200 to $250, based on the car. He's had European models turned away because they don't have the equipment required. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but always inquire with your local car dealer to determine the price.

Getting a New Fob

If the key fob you have cannot be repaired, you may have to purchase another one. Depending on the model and make, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but they will also have all of the necessary tools and software to programme your vehicle properly. If you're looking for a cheaper solution, many independent locksmiths will be able to provide you with new car keys at a lower cost.

It's a good idea to attempt to reset the fob you have before you decide to buy a new one. The owner's manual should provide the correct reset procedure. This is usually the result of a series of button presses which restores the factory settings.

You should also look over your owner's guide and warranty information to determine whether you can obtain an additional key fob. If your car's warranty is still active or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could be eligible to receive a reimbursement for the cost of replacing the fob.

Finding the right where to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. If you own a new car and want the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your key fobs are in working order, you may be better off going to the dealership for this service. If you are looking for a more affordable alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith who can provide the same service at a lower price.

A locksmith who is professional is a great option If you're not confident doing this kind of work. They are trained and equipped to change or reprogram keys for cars of all kinds, and can do so quickly. Additionally, locksmiths will often visit your workplace or home to complete the task keyed car repair near me which is useful for certain people. They can also cut and program keys on site if you've lost keys. This is ideal for those who don't want to leave their vehicle unattended.