Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do much more than simply unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity could lead to expensive repair bills if it breaks.

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 will make your device work again.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a key fob not working. It's simple to solve and is worth a try before you invest in an alternative fob. You can buy the new button cell at a local auto part store or hardware retailer if you have one. You can also refer to the owner's manual (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to find specific instructions on how to replace and open the battery inside your fob.

Most fobs come with two halves that snap together -you'll have to gently pry the sides apart in order to access the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or another tool with a thin, flat blade. You can put your tool into a notch at the bottom of the key fob. You may also want to keep an eye out for tiny pieces that may come loose while you work.

Insert the new battery the same way as you removed the old one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing up toward the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the marks inside the battery compartment of your fob.

You can push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't work, you might have an issue with your vehicle that requires a professional to fix or replace.

Certain key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts may be fragile and easily corroded. In these situations, the best option is to talk to a expert or dealer. When replacing a battery, be gentle and follow the owner's manual. You might be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer but you'll have to check the owner's manual to be sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.

Replacing the Internal Key

To guard against theft, many key fobs come with an electronic key inside. When the fob battery dies it will leave behind a blank internal key which can open trunks and doors (and in some cases start certain vehicles). Most people don't know this however, they can save a trip to the dealership by simply replacing the fob battery. Most modern fobs use flat watches-style batteries that can be found at hardware stores and auto parts shops. Choosing the right type of battery is important however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry and cause the fob's failure much sooner.

If you change the battery and discover that the issue is still there it could be a sign that something else is happening with your car. If you have an owner's manual and you're not sure, try to determine if a reset procedure is available to restore the fob's factory programming. If that doesn't help you'll have to visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in vehicle security systems and fob programming.

Fobs could also fail due to faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually located near the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals that allow you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. If you notice that you're being required to get closer and closer to your vehicle in order to make it work, there's a good chance that the transmitter isn't working.

It may be required 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 a special piece of equipment that can only be purchased at a dealer. This is a job that should be performed by a certified mechanic in order to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. These batteries are readily available in pharmacy and home improvement stores and are inexpensive. This is a good method to start before you purchase a new key fob.

Alternatively, you may be able to re-program the fob by following some basic steps. This procedure can differ between automobiles, so read the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. One key fob might require the ignition to be on when programming. Another might need the key to be removed and inserted several times.

The general procedure is very simple. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Then, sit in the driver's seat and shut all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new fob is communicating with the vehicle properly. Then, place the old key back in the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob towards the transmission receiver. This is typically located on the front, above the mirror. The key lock repair near me will inform the vehicle within a short amount of time that it's being programmed. This can be accomplished by turning the door locks or by emitting an audible chime. This is a difficult procedure, so pay attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.

If the key fob won't work after reprogramming, try replacing the batteries. If the issue isn't resolved then a visit to your car key Lock Repair near me dealer or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment to reprogram your broken car key repair near me fob, or even create a brand new one if necessary.

Genesky says that he can program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, depending on the vehicle. Genesky has had European models turned away because he lacks the expensive equipment needed. Fortunately, most aftermarket fobs can be programmed however it's best to talk to the dealer of your choice first to determine what their price is.

Finding a New Fob

If your key fob is simply damaged beyond repair, you could need to get a new one. Depending on your vehicle's model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a fob replacement however, they'll have the necessary tools and software to programme your vehicle properly. If you're looking for a cheaper solution, a variety of locksmiths will be able to provide you with an entirely new car key fob for a much more reasonable price.

Before you decide to purchase a new fob, it is a good idea to try resetting your current device. Your owner's manual should outline the correct procedure for reset, which is usually just the pushing of a button that reset the original programming.

It is also a good idea to check your owner's manual as well as warranty information before deciding the best place to get the replacement of your key fob. If your car's warranty in good standing or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could qualify for a reimbursement of the cost of replacing the fob.

Getting a fob is easy enough however, finding the right location to do it can be a challenge. If you own a new car and want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your key fobs are in working order, you may prefer going to the dealership for this service. If you are looking for a more affordable alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith who will offer the same service for a lower price.

A locksmith professional is a great option for those who aren't comfortable with this kind of work. They're trained and equipped to repair or replace keys for cars of all types and do it quickly. In addition, a locksmith can often come to your office or home to do the job which can be extremely useful for certain people. They can even cut and car key lock repair near me program keys on-site in case you've lost keys, which is ideal for those who prefer not to leave their vehicles unattended.