Key Fob Replacement and Repair

The key fobs found in modern vehicles perform a lot of work and are subject to lots of abuse. Many times an easy replacement or repair key fob is all it takes to get them back in good working good working order.

Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are readily available in auto parts retailers. Before calling an expert, try a few DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery in the key fob's remote powers your remote in your car and in push-to start cars it will start your engine. This is why it is essential to keep a healthy, working battery. A dead key fob can be an issue for anyone traveling. The good news is that a simple, affordable replacement is able to fix the issue quickly.

The most obvious indication that a key fob's battery is depleting is the decrease in signal strength and range. You might also notice that the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require more effort.

It is common to find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box store or on the internet. They are typically CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. Consult your owner's guide before you shop for the right battery. 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 right specs before you buy.

Typically, the battery is located in the back of your key fob and can be removed by prying open the case with a flat-blade screwdriver. The battery will look similar to tiny coins and be labeled according to its size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus marks to ensure that you place the new battery properly. After the replacement battery is placed in the fob, gently snap both pieces of the fob together. Then test all of the buttons to make sure they function.

If your key fob key repair still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could have been deprogrammed. In this scenario, you'll need to contact locksmiths for assistance which will cost a bit more than replacing the key fob battery.

If your fob's battery is failing or you're experiencing other issues with your fob's battery An experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can examine and fix it to get you back on the road. Make sure to look over the range of services we offer in your area and make an appointment now!

Weak Signals

If your key fob isn't able to respond to the buttons on the remote, it could be a sign that the signaling system is not functioning properly. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals could cause poor performance and range.

The battery level of your fob is a good idea, since it can significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can aid in restoring a more consistent response. The procedure differs from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a phone call to the helpline of the manufacturer will likely be your best source of information here.

Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, for example, interference from other devices operating at the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines and other key fobs wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.

Finally, physical damage to your key fob can also interfere with the transmission of RF signals which may result in poor range and performance. A blown fuse, broken or cracked button or a bent case on the fob could affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to function properly.

There are a few simple steps you can follow to try and solve the issue of weak fob signals such as resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn out, it might be time to replace it.

Don't forget to remember that if you have an extra key fob which is part of your vehicle, it can be used instead of the primary remote in case it starts to fail. It's worth trying this solution to see if it can solve the issue prior to investing in the new one. In this instance it may be an appropriate time to consult an expert auto-locksmith. They can identify the issue and suggest the best way to proceed.

Physical Damage

It's not uncommon for key fobs to have issues from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these problems are not serious or complex and can be fixed by following a few simple steps. It's a good idea to keep spare batteries or another fob in case your key fails to function.

The most common reason for a car key fob not working is an inactive battery. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion buttons or coin cell batteries. These batteries are easily replaceable and can be found at most pharmacies and stores. You can open your fob's shell with a screwdriver with a flat head and gently pull out the existing battery. Make sure it's not damaged or loose and then simply pop in an alternative battery. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours might need a different type.

If your device loses pairing, it can cease to respond to buttons. This can be caused by a variety of factors like changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or a local dealership can usually repair the issue.

If none of the solutions above work, try this trick: unplug the batteries from the car and fob for a few minutes and then connect them in a reverse order. This may cause the system to reboot, and in certain cases it will resolve the issue without any other steps.

Keep the fob away from water or other sources of damage while experimenting. The fob is quite robust, but it's crucial to take care with it when you want it to last as long as you can.

If none of the troubleshooting techniques above are helpful you, you may have to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped, trodden on or subjected to other harsh environmental conditions it could be beyond repair and may require an upgrade. If that's the case, be sure to search for a deal prior to making your final choice.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care, it's a fact of life that car key fobs may occasionally fail to function. It's costly to replace yours if you lose it, especially in the event that you don't have an alternative. "You could end up paying $50 or more for an equivalent replacement from a dealer and get it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup, which will cost at least another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob to cease to function. If you know how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual contains instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll have to call an expert.

A locksmith can assist you to find or replace the lost key fob. They will also likely have an idea of the reason your fob was not working in the first instance. If your car is an older model that has no built-in smart technology You can save money by finding the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and storing it in a safe place--such as your wallet or on your phone. This will make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a new key fob to your car in the event that you need to do so.

If your current key fob is a modern smart key it will require a car dealership or locksmith to deprogram it and get an entirely new one which is more expensive than simply replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption which stops thieves from getting access to the car. And that means locksmiths need an exclusive programming tool that only the vehicle manufacturer has, which adds to the overall expense.

In the majority of instances, the entire process will be charged once. This includes all costs to reprogramme a new keyfob. This can range from $20 at some shops to over $200 at dealerships for cars, based on the model of vehicle.