Key Fob Replacement and Repair

The key fobs in modern automobiles do a lot of work and are subject to a lot of abuse. In most cases, a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to make them work again.

Most fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to find in hardware stores and auto parts stores. Before you call a professional, try a few DIY fixes!

Dead Key Fob Batteries

The battery of the key Fob Key Repair powers your remote in your car and, in push-to-start vehicles it will start your engine. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain an active, healthy battery. A dead key fob is an issue for anyone traveling. A simple, affordable replacement will solve the issue quickly.

The most obvious indication that a key fob battery is dying is the loss of signal strength and range. You may also notice the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require extra effort.

A new key fob is available in the auto part section of a big retailer or on the internet. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. However it's best to consult your owner's manual prior to purchasing the right battery for your fob. Certain cars require a certain size or type of battery that isn't always readily available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before you buy.

Typically the battery is situated in the back of your key fob. It is removed by tearing open the case with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. It is likely to look like an ordinary coin and will be marked with the battery's size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus marks in order to place the new battery properly. Once the battery replacement is placed in the fob, gently snap both pieces of the fob together. Then test each button to ensure they work.

If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this case it is likely that a locksmith will be required to assist you. This will cost more than just replacing the key fob's battery.

The skilled mechanics at YourMechanic are able to 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 available in your area and schedule an appointment today!

Weak Signals

If you find that your key fob isn't responding as you would expect to the buttons on the remote, this could be a sign of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistant signals can cause poor range and performance.

Checking the battery level of your fob is a good idea because it could significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can aid in restoring a more consistent response. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support line is your best resource.

Other factors can cause weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices operating at the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices can interfere with the signal RF (radio-frequency) signals that your key fob sends to connect to the vehicle's receiver.

Additionally physical damage to your key fob may affect the transmission of RF signals, which could result in a decrease in range and performance. A blown fuses, a broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob can all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote to not to respond.

There are a few simple steps you can follow to try and resolve the issue of weak fob signals for example, resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is worn out, it's time to replace it altogether.

Also, don't forget if you have an extra key fob which is part of your vehicle, this can be used in place of the primary remote if it begins to fail. You should try this solution first to see if it can solve the issue prior to buying an entirely new remote. In this situation it could be the right an appropriate time to consult an expert auto-locksmith. They can identify the issue and suggest the most effective method of action.

Physical Damage

It's not unusual for key fobs to have issues from time to time. Most of these problems aren't complicated or difficult to fix and can be solved by following a few easy steps. It's a good idea also to keep spare batteries or a different fob in case your key repair shop ever ceases to work.

The most frequent cause for the car key fob not working is an inactive battery. These small devices depend on tiny lithium-ion button or coin batteries to function. They are easily replaced and can be found in most pharmacies and stores. You can remove your fob's case using an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pull out the existing battery. Check to see if it's damaged or loose, and then put in an alternative battery. Most fobs require CR2032 batteries. However, yours might need a different type.

Your fob could not be responding to buttons when it loses its pairing with the car. This could be due to various reasons, such as changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or a local dealership will usually be able to repair the issue.

You can try this trick to fix your fob in the event that none of the above methods work: remove the battery from both the car and the fob for about 10 minutes, and then reconnect them in the reverse order. This may cause the system to restart and in some instances it can fix the issue without additional steps.

While you're experimenting with the fob, make sure to keep it out of water and other potential dangers. The fob is tough however, you must take care with it to ensure that it lasts for as long as it is possible to.

If none of the troubleshooting procedures above are helpful you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped or tripped over, or exposed to other environmental hazards, it may be beyond repair and may require an upgrade. Shop around to find the best deal.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care keys to cars will occasionally stop working. If yours is lost, it could be a huge expense to replace it, especially if you don't have a spare. "You may end up paying $50 to $100 for a replacement and having it programmed by the dealer, and a mechanical backup that will cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is among the most common reasons for a keyfob to stop working. If you are aware of how to replace the battery, or if your owner's guide has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If this doesn't resolve the problem, it's time to contact an expert.

A locksmith can help replace or find the lost key fob. A locksmith can probably tell you the reason why your fob stopped working in the first in the first place. If your car is an older model with no smart technology built-in, you can save some cash by locating the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and storing it in a secure place, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram the new key fob for your car key button repair should you need to do so.

If your existing key fob is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it and get a new one made which is more expensive than simply replacing it. The reason is that modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption to prevent thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that locksmiths must be equipped with a specific software program that is available only to car manufacturers, which increases the cost.

In the majority of instances, 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, that can run from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a car dealer.