Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Key fobs on modern vehicles perform a lot of work and are subject to lots of abuse. Sometimes just a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to restore them to working order.
Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries. This is readily available in auto parts and hardware stores. Before you call an expert, you can try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery of the key fob powers your car's remote and in push-to start cars it will start your engine. It is therefore important to keep a functioning and healthy battery. A dead key fob is an issue for anyone in the middle of nowhere. A simple, affordable replacement will fix the problem quickly.
The most common sign that a key fob's battery is failing is the decrease in signal strength and range. You might also notice that the buttons on your fob do not work or require extra effort to activate.
A new key fob is available in the auto part section of a large retailer or online. They are typically CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. However, it's a good idea to read the owner's manual prior to purchasing the right battery for your device. Some cars require a particular size or kind of battery that's not always available at big-box retailers So, make sure you know the specifications prior to you purchase.
The battery is usually located in the back of the key fob. It can be removed with a flat-bladed screwdriver by opening the case. It is usually shaped like the shape of a small coin, and be labelled with the battery's size. Be sure to note which way the plus and minus symbols are positioned to ensure that the battery you are replacing 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 does not work after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this situation, a locksmith will be required to assist you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery of your key fob.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery has failed. Make an appointment to look over all of the services we provide in your local area.
Weak Signals
If you find that your key fob isn't responding to the buttons on the remote, this can 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 performance and range.
One of the first things to determine is if your fob's battery is low because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. It's also worth resetting the settings of your fob, which can help to bring back a more consistent response from the car. The procedure may differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support number is your best resource.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices operating at the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines and other key fobs wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle.
Additionally physical damage to your key fob can also interfere with the transmission of signals RF, which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob can all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote to respond.
There are some simple steps you can try to and fix the problem of weak fob signals, for example, resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn out, it might be time to replace it.
Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that came with your car in the event that your primary remote begins to fail. It's worth trying this solution to see if it solves the issue before you invest in the new one. If not, it could be the best time to consult a professional auto locksmith. They can identify the issue and suggest the most effective course of action.
Physical Damage
It's not common for key fobs to encounter issues from time to time. Fortunately, most of these problems are not difficult or complicated and can be solved with a few easy steps. It's recommended to keep spare batteries or an additional fob in case one of your keys ever fails to work.
A dead battery is the most frequent reason why a key fob in a car is not working. These little devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. lock and key repair near me are easily replaceable and can be found in most pharmacies and stores. You can open the case of the fob using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently remove your existing battery. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs use CR2032 batteries, however yours might require a different kind.
Your fob might also stop responding to the buttons after losing its connection with your car. This could be due to a number of factors, such as changing the batteries, but it is generally simple to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to fix.
You can try this method to solve your fob issue when none of the other methods work: disconnect the battery from both the fob and the car for about 10 minutes, then reconnect them in the reverse order. This may cause the system to restart and in some instances it will resolve the issue without further steps.
When you're playing around with the fob, make sure to keep it away from water and other potential sources of damage. A fob is durable however, you must take care of it to ensure that it lasts for as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting techniques above help you, you may have to replace your key fob. If it has been dropped, trampled on or exposed to extreme environmental conditions, it could not be able to be repaired and will require a replacement. If that's the case, make sure to search for a deal prior to making your final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care it's a fact in life that car key fobs will sometimes cease to function. If you lose yours, it can be extremely expensive to replace it, especially when you don't have a spare. "You might end up paying $50 - $100 for a replacement and having it programmed by the dealer, and an electronic backup that could cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob to stop working is a simple issue, like a weak battery. If you know how to change the battery, or if your owner's manual contains instructions, you can try it yourself. If this doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to contact an expert.
A locksmith can help you to replace or locate the lost key fob. A locksmith will probably know why your fob stopped functioning in the first initial place. And if your car is an older model that has no built-in smart technology You can save cash by locating the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain) and storing it in a safe place--such as your wallet or on your phone. This will make it much easier for the locksmith to reprogram the new key fob for your car if you ever need to do so.
If your existing key fob is a smart key of the present, you'll have to visit a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it before getting a new one created which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption which stops thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that the locksmith must use a special software program that is available only to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.
In most instances, the entire service will be charged at once. This includes all costs for reprogramming a new keyfob. It can cost anywhere from $20 in certain stores to over $200 at dealerships for cars, based on the model of vehicle.