Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do much more than just unlock and start vehicles. However, the added complexity could cause high repair bills when one of them 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 get yours working again.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason why that a key fob doesn't work is due to a dead battery. It's a simple repair and worth a try before you spend money on the replacement fob. You can pick up the new button cell at your local auto part retailer or hardware store in the event that you already have one. You can also refer to your owner's manual (or, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people who show you how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery in the specific type of fob you have.

You'll need to gently pull away the sides of the majority of fobs in order to access the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or some other tool equipped with a thin, flat blade. It may be helpful to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob that you can put your tool in between. You may also want to look for Car key Fob Repairs small pieces that may come loose while you work.

Insert the new battery in the same manner as you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons, while the opposite side is facing (-), the markings on the compartment for the battery.

Check the fob to determine whether it is working by pressing the button. If it fails, it could be a problem in your vehicle that requires to be fixed or replaced by a specialist.

Some key fobs are difficult to open and the contacts may be fragile and easily corrosion-prone. In these cases the best solution is to talk to a specialist or a dealer. If you're in need of replacing batteries, you should be very gentle and follow the instructions specifically in the owner's manual. You might be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or big-box retailer, but you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to ensure that it's the right one for your vehicle.

Replace the internal key

The majority of key fobs have a physical mechanical key that is hidden within the fob to stop thieves from getting. When the battery in a fob dies it will leave a blank key left behind that can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In some cases it is possible to start certain vehicles. Most people don't realize that they can save a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. Most modern fobs use flat-watch-style batteries which can be found in auto parts stores and hardware shops. Choosing the right type of battery is crucial, however. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry and cause the fob to fail earlier.

If you change the battery and find the issue is still there it could be an indication that something else is going on with your car key lock repair near me. Check your owner's manual to determine if you have a reset procedure that will bring the fob back to factory programming. If this doesn't help, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle security systems and fob programming.

Fobs could also fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to allow you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. It is possible that you will need to get closer to the car to enable it.

It may be necessary for a professional to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually suffice, but certain fobs require a specific tool or equipment which can only be found at a dealer. It is a good idea to have a qualified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't break the fob or hurt yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that is not functioning just requires a new battery. Because these batteries are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is a good first step before buying a new car key fob.

You may also be able to re-program the fob yourself by following a few basic steps. This procedure can differ between vehicles, so it is recommended to consult your owner's guide and research the model you have. For example, one key fob may require the ignition to be on while reprogramming it. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed repeatedly.

The general process is simple. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key is communicating with the vehicle correctly. Insert the old key into the ignition and turn it ON however, do not start the engine. Next press the lock button on the fob while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is typically situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will notify the vehicle within a short period of time that it is being programmed. This can be done by turning off the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This procedure can be difficult and it's crucial to be aware of the timing and not to over-press the key button.

If the key fob won't function after reprogramming, you can try using a new battery. If the issue persists, you may want to visit your local dealer or locksmith. A professional will have the tools and programming equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or make an entirely new key if needed.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs for around $200-$250, depending on the 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 you should always check with your local car dealer to find out the cost.

Finding a New Fob

If your key fob is beyond repair, you may need to get an entirely new one. Depending on the model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option to replace your fob, but it will also have the tools and software required to program your car properly. If you are looking for a less expensive option, a number of independent locksmiths can provide you with an entirely new car key fob at a lower price.

It is a good thing to attempt to reset the fob you have before you make the decision to purchase another one. The owner's guide should explain the correct procedure for reset. This is usually the result of a series of button presses that reset the factory program.

It is also a good idea to read the owner's manual and warranty information before deciding which place to go for the replacement of your key fob. If your car key fob repair is still under warranty or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be eligible for reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.

Finding a fob is simple enough however, finding the right location to get it done can be tricky. If you own a new vehicle and you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your key fobs are in good working order, you may prefer going to the dealership for this service. However, if you're looking for an option that is more affordable, it is often possible to find an independent locksmith who can offer the same services for a lower cost.

If you're not comfortable doing this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a great option. They are skilled and equipped to reprogram or replace all kinds of car key fobs, and they can often accomplish the task in a short time. Additionally, locksmiths can often come to your office or home to complete the task which is practical for some. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost keys, which is great for those who do not want to leave their cars unattended.