Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today are more than just a way to unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can cause costly repair costs when it fails.
It's a good idea to know that the majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which can be easily replaced at home. You may even find that a reset will get yours working again.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most common cause of a key fob not working. It's easy to solve and is worth a try before you invest in the replacement fob. You can purchase the new button cell at your local auto parts retailer or hardware store If you own one. You can also check your owner's manual (or in the event that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people explaining how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery in your particular type of fob.
key car repair 'll have to gently pull away the sides of the majority of fobs in order to access the battery. You'll require a small flat-bladed screwdriver, or another tool with a small blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob that you can use to put your tool in between. You might also want to keep an eye out for small pieces that might break loose as you work.
When you have your new battery, place it in the same way that you removed the old one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the markings in the battery compartment of your fob.
Test the fob to see if it works by pushing the button. If it isn't working, there could be a problem in your vehicle that requires to be repaired or replaced by a professional.
Certain key fobs are difficult to open and the contacts may be brittle and easily corroded. In these instances, the best option is to consult a car expert or a dealer. If you're looking to replace batteries, you should be gentle and follow the specific instructions in your owner's manual. You might be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or a big-box retailer however, you'll need to consult your owner's manual to make sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.
Replace the internal key
To prevent theft, most key fobs come with a mechanical key hidden inside. When the battery in the fob dies, it leaves an internal key that is blank that is able to unlock trunks and doors (and in some cases start certain cars). The majority of people do not realize that they can save a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The flat watch-style battery is used in most modern fobs. They can be located at hardware and auto parts stores. The right kind of battery is important, however. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry, causing the fob to fail much earlier.
If you replace the battery, and the problem persists, it could be an indication that something else is happening in your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if you have a reset procedure that will bring the fob back to factory-setup. If that doesn't help then you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle security systems and fob programming.
Fobs can also malfunction because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are usually found close to the steering wheel or on 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 in order to get it to work.
A professional may need to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually suffice, but some fobs require a specialized tool or a special piece of equipment that can only be found at a dealer. It's best to have a certified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't damage 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 easily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's a good first step before buying the purchase of a new car key fob.
You can also reprogram your key fob yourself by following a few basic steps. The procedure may differ for different vehicles, so it is recommended to consult your owner's guide and study the specific model of your vehicle. One key fob could require that the ignition switch be switched on when changing the program. One key fob could require the key to be inserted several times.
The procedure is simple. First, make sure the new battery is in place. Then, get into the driver's seat and shut all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure the new key is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. After that, put the old key back into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Then, press the lock button on the fob, while looking at the transmission receiver, which is typically situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. Within a brief time the key will signal to the vehicle that it's being programmed by cycling the doors' locks or emitting the sound of a chime. This can be a tricky process, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.
If the key fob does not work Try reprogramming it with fresh batteries. If the problem persists you might want to visit your local locksmith or dealer. A professional will have all the tools and equipment to reprogram your car's fob or design a new one, if required.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs at around $200-$250, depending on the model of vehicle. He's experienced European models turned away because he lacks the expensive equipment needed. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but it's always best to talk to a car dealer first to see the price.
How do I get a new fob
If your key fob is beyond repair, you may require a new one. Depending on the brand and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to assist. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but they will also have all of the necessary tools and software needed to program your vehicle correctly. If you're looking for a cheaper solution, a variety of locksmiths can offer you an entirely new car key fob at a lower price.
It is a good thing to try to reset your current fob before you make the decision to purchase another one. The owner's manual will outline the proper procedure for reset that is typically the pushing of a button that restores it to factory programming.
It is an excellent idea to check the owner's manual and warranty information before you decide which place to go for an replacement fob for your key. If your vehicle is under warranty, or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be eligible for reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.
Finding the right location to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. If you own a new car and want the security from knowing that your key fobs are in good condition, you may be better off going to the dealership to get this service. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith who can provide the same service at an affordable cost.
If you aren't comfortable handling this type of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a great option. They are trained and equipped to replace or reprogram key fobs for cars of all kinds, and can do so quickly. In addition, a locksmith is often able to come to your workplace or home to complete the task which can be extremely useful for certain people. They can also cut and program keys on site if you've lost them. This is ideal for those who don't like to leave their car without a key.