Car Key Fob Repair: It s Not As Difficult As You Think

Car Key Fob keyless entry repairs

Today's key fobs do a lot more than unlock and start cars. This added complexity could cause costly repair costs when it fails.

The good news is that the majority of fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You may even find that a reset can bring it back to life.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason why a key fob stops working is because of the battery being dead. It's a simple fix, and it's worth trying before you decide to spend money on a new fob. You can pick up the new button cell at a local auto key fob repair part store or hardware retailer if you have one. You can also refer to your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to find specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery in your fob.

You'll need to gently pull apart the sides of most fobs to reach the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or a different tool with a thin, flat blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the lower edge of the fob that you can wedge your tool between. You may also want to look for small pieces that could fall off while working.

Insert the new battery the same manner as you removed the old one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned with the markings in the battery compartment of your fob.

Push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't work, you may have an issue with your vehicle that requires a professional to repair or replace.

Certain key fobs require special tools to open, and the contacts inside could be fragile and susceptible to corroding. In these situations the best solution is to consult a car expert or a dealer. When replacing a battery be gentle and follow the owner's guide. You might be able find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer however, you'll need to consult your owner's manual to be sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.

Replacing the Internal Key

To protect against theft, the majority of key fobs have an electronic key inside. If the battery inside the fob fails, a blank key is left behind, which can be used to open trunks and doors. In some cases, this key can even start certain cars. A majority of people don't realize that they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. Most modern fobs use flat watches-style batteries that can be found at hardware stores and auto parts shops. It is crucial to choose the correct type of battery. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry and cause the fob to fail much earlier.

If you replace the battery and find the problem persists, it could be a sign that something else is happening with your vehicle. If you have an owner's guide and you're not sure, try to determine if you can use a reset procedure to restore the fob's factory programming. If this doesn't work, you'll have visit a dealership or a shop independent that specializes in vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.

Fobs can also fail due to faulty transmitter receivers. They are typically placed on the dashboard or near the steering wheel, and transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car using the fob. You may have to move closer to your car to enable it.

A professional might have to open the case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually do the trick, but certain fobs require a special tool or special equipment that can only be purchased at a dealership. It is a good idea to have a certified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't break the fob or hurt yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

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

You can also re-program your key fob on your own If you follow a few basic steps. This process varies between vehicle makes, so it's important to read the owner's manual and research the specifics of your model. For example the key fob might require that the ignition be turned on while reprogramming it. One key repair car fob may require the key to be inserted several times.

The basic procedure is easy. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, except the driver's door. This will ensure the new key is communicating with the vehicle properly. Then, place the old key back in the ignition and switch it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Next, press the lock button on the fob while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will notify the vehicle within a brief amount of time that it's being programmed. This can be done by turning off the door locks, or emitting an audible chime. This is a challenging process, so pay close attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.

If the key fob still doesn't work, try reprogramming it again with fresh batteries. If the issue isn't resolved then a visit to your car dealer or locksmiths should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment required to reprogram your car fob, or even create a brand new one if needed.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs at around $200 to $250, based on the model of vehicle. However, he's had the need to turn down customers who have European models because there's no equipment they require. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always inquire with your local car dealer to find out the price.

Finding a New Fob

If your key fob can't be repaired, you might have to purchase a new 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 choice for a replacement fob but it also has the tools and software necessary to program your car properly. If you are looking for a less expensive solution, a variety of locksmiths can offer you an entirely new car key fob for a much more reasonable cost.

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

You should also look over the owner's manual and warranty information to determine whether you can obtain a replacement fob for your key. If your car keys repair near me's warranty is still in effect or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could be eligible for a reimbursement of the cost of replacing the fob.

Finding the best where to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. You might want to go to the dealer for this service if you are driving a brand new car and you want to be confident that your key fobs are functioning correctly. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service at less cost.

If you're not comfortable doing this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a great choice. They are certified and equipped to reprogram or replace most types of mobile car key repair near me key fobs and often, they can complete the task quickly. A locksmith can also come to your office or home which is convenient for many. They can cut keys and program them on the spot if you've lost them. This is perfect for those who don't want to leave their vehicle without a key.