Key Fob Replacement and Repair

The key fobs in modern cars do a lot of work and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. Many times just a simple replacement or repair is all it takes to get them back in good working in good condition.

Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries, which are readily available in hardware stores and auto parts stores. Before calling a professional, you can do some DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery of the key fob powers your car's remote, and in push-to-start cars, it can start your engine. It is therefore crucial to maintain a functional healthy and a good battery. When you're out and about and your key fob is not working, it can cause a lot of trouble. A simple, affordable replacement can fix the issue quickly.

The most obvious indication that a battery on a key fob is failing is the decrease in signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require more effort.

It is common to find a new key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box store or on the internet. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you decide on the best battery. Certain vehicles require a particular size or type of battery, which is not always available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before purchasing.

The battery is typically located in the back of the key fob. It can be removed with a flat-bladed screwdriver by prying the case open. It is likely to look like an ordinary coin and will be marked with the battery's size. Make sure to note the way the plus and minus symbols are positioned to ensure that the new battery is placed correctly. Once the battery replacement is installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob together and test the buttons to ensure they work.

If your key Fob Key Repair doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this instance you'll need to call an expert locksmith and it will cost you a bit more than replacing the battery of your key fob.

YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob if it's damaged or the battery has died. Make an appointment to look over all of the services we offer in your area.

Weak Signals

If you find that your key fob isn't responding to 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, fob key repair and weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor range and performance.

One of the first things to examine is whether your fob's battery is low, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. It's also worth resetting the fob's settings and help get an even and consistent response from the car. The procedure may differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to your manufacturer's support number is your best guide.

Other factors, including interference from other devices that operate at the same frequency can also cause weak signals. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices may interfere with the RF (radio-frequency) signals your key fob sends to connect to the receiver of your vehicle.

Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob could hinder the transmission of RF signals which can result in poor range and performance. A blown fuses, a broken or cracked button or a bent case on the fob can affect signal transmission and cause the remote to not to function properly.

You can attempt to solve the issue by resetting your fob's settings or by replacing the battery. If your fob is damaged, it's time to replace it altogether.

Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. It's a good idea to try this method to see if it can solve the issue before you invest in the new one. In this situation it may be the right time to contact an auto-locksmith professional. They will be able to identify the issue and recommend the best course of actions.

Physical Damage

It's not common for key fobs to experience issues from time-to-time. Most of these issues aren't complex or serious and can be resolved by following a few easy steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or an additional fob in case one of your keys ceases to function.

The most frequent reason for a car key fob not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion buttons or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced easily and can be found at most pharmacies, grocery stores, and other places which sell electronic items. Open the fob's case with a screwdriver with a flat head and gently pull out the battery you have. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours may require a different kind.

When your fob loses its pairing, it can cease to respond to buttons. This can be caused by various reasons, such as changing the batteries. However an auto Locksmith or a local dealership is usually able to fix it.

If none of the methods above work, try this method: disconnect the batteries from the car and the fob for a few minutes, then reconnect the two in reverse order. This can force the system to restart, and in some instances it can fix the issue without further steps.

While you're testing the fob, ensure to keep it out of water and other possible dangers. The fob is a durable device, but you should take care of it to ensure that it lasts for as long as it is possible to.

If none of the troubleshooting techniques above work you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped or trampled upon, or exposed to extreme conditions, it might not be able to be repaired and will require a replacement. Find the most affordable price.

Lost Fob

Even with the best care keys to cars may fail to function. 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 to purchase an alternative from a dealer and get it programmed, and a new mechanical backup, which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.

One of the most common reasons for a key fob to stop working is a basic issue, like a weak battery. You can try replacing the battery on your own when you know how, or refer to your owner's manual. If that doesn't work you'll need to call an expert.

A locksmith can be capable of helping you locate your lost fob, or get it replaced. They'll also probably have a good idea of the reason why your fob was not functioning in the first place. If your car is an older model with no smart technology built-in it is possible to save cash by locating the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and storing it in a safe place--such as in your wallet or on your phone. If you need to reprogram the key fob in your car the locksmith can do it more easily.

If your key fob is an older smart key, it'll need to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or car dealer. This could cost more than just replacing it. That's because modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from gaining access to the car. And that means the locksmith needs to have a special programing tool that only the vehicle manufacturer is equipped with, which adds to the overall expense.

In the majority of instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, including any costs to reprogram a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle it could cost anywhere from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a emergency car key repair dealer.