17 Reasons Not To Ignore Car Key Fob Repair

remote car key repairs Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do a lot more than simply unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can cause high repair bills when one of them fails.

The good news is that most fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. It is possible that a simple reset can make your fob work again.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most frequent reason for the fob's key not working. This is easy to fix, and it's worth trying before you go spending money on a new key fob. Take your car key repairs to an hardware or auto parts retailer that carries button cell batteries and pick up the replacement. You can also consult the owner's manual (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to get specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery inside your fob.

You'll need to gently pry apart the sides of most fobs in order to access the battery. You'll need a small flat-bladed screwdriver or another tool with a small blade. It's a good idea to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob that you can use to put your tool in between. It is also advisable to be on the lookout for small pieces that may fall off while working.

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

Test the fob to see whether it is working by pressing the button. If it doesn't work, there could be a problem with your car that requires a professional to repair or replace.

Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases the best solution is to consult a car specialist or dealer. If you're looking to replace a battery, try to be very gentle and follow the instructions that are specific to the owner's manual. You might be able to find a similar battery at a discounter store or a big-box retailer, but you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to be sure that it matches your car.

Replace the internal key

Most key fobs include an actual mechanical key that is hidden within the fob to keep it from being stolen. When the battery in the fob goes out and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind that can be used to open trunks and doors. In certain cases, this key can even start certain cars. Most people don't know this, but they can save themselves from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob battery. The flat watch-style battery is found in most modern fobs. These batteries are easily located at hardware and auto parts stores. It is crucial to choose the correct type of battery. The wrong type can damage the circuitry and cause the fob to fail much earlier.

If you change the battery and find the issue persists it could be a sign that something else is wrong with your car. If you have an owner's manual and you're not sure, try to determine if you can use a reset procedure to restore the fob's factory programming. If this isn't working, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.

Fobs can also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically placed on the dashboard or close to the steering wheel, and transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car using the fob. If you notice that you're having to get closer and closer to your car to get it to work, there's a great chance that the transmitter isn't working.

A professional might need to open the case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually suffice, but certain fobs require a special tool or special equipment that can only be purchased at a dealer. It is a good idea to have a qualified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't damage the fob or cause injury to yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply requires a new battery. Because these batteries are cheap and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's the ideal first step before purchasing the purchase of a new car key fob.

You can also reprogram your key fob by yourself If you follow a few basic steps. This procedure can differ between vehicles, so it is recommended to refer to the owner's manual and research your specific model. For example, one key fob may require that the ignition be on while reprogramming it. Another might need the key to be inserted and removed repeatedly.

The basic procedure is easy. First, make sure that the new battery is in place. Then, get in the driver's seat and close all doors, with the exception of the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle in a proper manner. Insert the old key into the ignition and turn it ON, but do not start the engine. Then 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. In a short period of time the key will announce to the vehicle that it's being programmed by cycling the doors' locks or generating an emitted sound. This is a challenging process, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.

If the key fob won't work after reprogramming it, try using new batteries. If the issue persists then a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or locksmiths should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or design a new one if needed.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for $200 to $250, based on the vehicle. But he's had to refuse customers with European models due to the fact that they don't have the costly equipment they require. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always consult your local car key And Repair dealer to find out the cost.

Finding a New Fob

If your key fob cannot be repaired, you may need to buy a new one. Depending on your vehicle's model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob however, they'll have all the required tools and software to program your car correctly. Many independent locksmiths offer a new car key fob for an affordable price.

It is a good thing to try to reset your current device before you make the decision to purchase another one. The owner's manual should outline the correct reset procedure. It is typically a series button presses which restores the factory settings.

It is also recommended to check your owner's guide and warranty information to determine if you can get an alternative fob for your key. If your car is under warranty or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership that includes bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.

Finding the right place to get a fob can be difficult. You may want to go to the dealer to get this service if you have a newer vehicle and want to be confident that your key fobs are functioning correctly. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that will offer the same service at a lower price.

If you're not confident handling this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith may be a great choice. They are trained and equipped to change or reprogram keys for cars of all types and can do it quickly. Additionally, locksmiths is often able to come to your home or office to do the job which can be extremely useful for certain people. They can cut and program keys on the spot if you've lost them. This is great for those who don't want to leave their car in the garage.