Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs found in modern automobiles are very efficient and are subject to lots of abuse. Often just a simple repair or replacement is all you need to make them work again.
The majority of fobs are powered by a flat watch-style battery, which is easily found in auto parts and hardware stores. Before you call an expert, try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Battery
The battery in the key fob's remote powers your car's remote and in push-to start cars it will start your engine. Therefore, it is critical to maintain an active, healthy battery. When you're out and about, a dead key fob can be a huge problem. A simple, low-cost replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are among the most commonly observed indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. You may also notice the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require additional effort.
You will often find the latest key fob batteries in the auto parts section of a large box store or on the internet. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. Consult your owner's guide before you decide on the best battery. Some cars require a specific size or type of battery that isn't always available at big-box stores. Make sure to verify before you buy.
Typically the battery is placed on the back of your key fob. It is removed by tearing open the case with the flat-blade screwdriver. It is usually shaped like a small coin and be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note which way the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the battery you are replacing is placed correctly. Once the battery replacement is inserted, gently snap both pieces of the fob together and test the buttons to ensure that they work.
If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this scenario you'll have to contact locksmiths for assistance, which will cost a bit more than replacing the battery of your key fob.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery is dead. Make sure you check out all of our services in your area and schedule an appointment today!
Weak Signals
If your key fob does not respond to the buttons on the remote it could be a sign that the signaling isn't working correctly. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistent signals can cause poor range and performance.
One of the first things to determine is if your fob's battery is insufficient, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob could aid in restoring a more constant response. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's manual or a call to the manufacturer's support number is your best resource.
Other factors, including interference from other devices operating at the same frequency can also contribute to weak signals. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices may interfere with the signal RF (radio-frequency) signals that your key fob transmits to connect to the receiver of your vehicle.
Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob may affect the transmission of signals RF, which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A blown fuse, broken or cracked button or a bent case can all affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.
You can fix the problem by resetting the fob's settings or by replacing the battery. If how to repair car key lock is old and damaged, it's time to replace it completely.
Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote begins to fail. It's worth trying this option to determine if it resolves the issue before you invest in an entirely new one. In this case it may be time to call a professional auto-locksmith. They can identify the issue and suggest the best way to proceed.
Physical Damage
It's not common for key fobs to have issues from time-to-time. The majority of these issues aren't complex or difficult to fix and can be solved with just a few steps. It's also a good idea to have spare batteries or even another key fob in the event that one of your keys ever fails to work.
The most common reason for the car key fob not working is an inactive battery. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They are easy to replace and are available in most pharmacies, grocery stores and places that sell electronics. The fob's case can be opened using an screwdriver that is flat, and gently pry out your existing battery. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged or loosened. The majority of fobs use CR2032 batteries, but yours may require an alternative type.
If your device loses its pairing, it can stop responding to buttons. This can happen due to a number of reasons, including changing the batteries, but is usually easy to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.
If none of the solutions above work, you can try this method: disconnect the batteries from the car and the fob for a few minutes, then reconnect the two in a reverse order. This could trigger a reboot within the system and in some cases it will solve the problem without doing any of the other steps.
Keep the fob out of water or other sources of damage while you are trying out new techniques. Fobs can be quite sturdy, but you need to take care with it in order for it to last as long as possible.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above work, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped and trampled or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it may not be able to be repaired and may require an upgrade. Shop around to find the most competitive price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact in the road that car key fobs may sometimes cease to function. It's expensive to replace yours when it is lost and especially if you do not have a spare. "You could end up paying $50 to $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by a dealer, as well as a mechanical backup that will cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob to not function is a simple issue, like a weak battery. If you know how to replace the battery, or if the owner's guide has instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't solve the issue, it's time to call in an expert.
A locksmith can assist you to find or replace your lost key fob. They will also likely have an idea of the reason your fob was not working in the first instance. If your car is older and doesn't include smart technology, you can still save money by recording the key number plate of your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind an ornamental keychain. If you're looking to change the programming of your car's key fob the locksmith can do it much more quickly.
If your existing key fob is a modern smart key and you want to change it, you'll need to go to a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it and get a new one made and this can be more expensive than replacing it. This is because modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that locksmiths need an exclusive programing tool that only the vehicle manufacturer is equipped with, which adds to the overall expense.
In the majority of cases, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any costs to reprogram the new key fob. Based on the car the cost can range from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a car dealership.
