Everything You Need To Know About Fob Key Repair
Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs in modern cars do a lot of work and are subject to a lot of abuse. In most cases, an easy repair or replacement is all you need to make them functional again.
Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries, which are readily available in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. Before you call a professional, try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The key fob's battery powers the remote you have in your car and, in push-to-start vehicles it will start your engine. As a result, it is crucial to maintain an efficient, functioning battery. A dead key fob can be a major problem when you're on-the-go. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can fix it quickly.
The most obvious indication that a key fob's battery is depleting is the decrease in signal strength and range. You may also notice that the buttons on the fob don't work or require additional effort to be activated.
A new key fob can be found in the auto parts section of a big retailer or on the internet. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. Check out the owner's manual before you decide on the best battery. Some cars require a specific size or type of battery, which isn't always readily available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before you buy.
Typically, the battery is located on the back of your key fob and can be removed by prying the case open with a flat-blade screwdriver. The battery will look similar to an ordinary coin and will be labeled based on its size. Be sure to note which direction the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the battery you are replacing is placed correctly. After the replacement battery is installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob together and test each button to ensure they work.
It's worth noting that if your key fob continues to cease functioning even after battery replacement, it might be deprogrammed. In this case you'll have to contact a locksmith for help, which will cost a bit more than replacing the battery of your key fob.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery has failed. Be sure to check out all of our services available in your region and book an appointment today!
Weak Signals
If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to buttons on the remote, this could be an indication of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, and weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor range and performance.
One of the first things to check is whether or not the battery of your fob is depleted, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. It's also worth resetting the fob's settings, which can help to get a more consistent response from the car. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support number is your best source of information.
Other factors, such as interference from other devices operating at the same frequency can also affect weak signals. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob can hinder the transmission of signals RF, which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A blown fuses, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case of the fob could all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote not to respond.
You can attempt to solve the issue by resetting the fob's settings or by replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn, it may be time to replace it.
Don't forget to remember that if you have an extra key fob which comes with your vehicle, this can be used in place of the primary remote in case it starts to fail. It's worth trying this option to see if it can solve the issue before you invest in a new one. If not, key fob repairs might be the best time to contact an expert auto locksmith. They'll be able to diagnose the problem and suggest the best method of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can be troublesome at times. Fortunately, most of these issues aren't difficult or complicated and can be fixed with a few easy steps. It's a good idea to keep spare batteries or another fob in the event that your key ceases to work.
A dead battery is the main reason for a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They are easy to replace and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and shops that sell electronics. The fob's case can be opened using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently remove the battery that you have. Ensure that it is not damaged or loose and then simply pop in an alternative battery. Most fobs utilize CR2032 batteries, but yours might require an alternative kind.
If your device loses pairing, it can cease to respond to buttons. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or local dealership can usually repair the issue.
You can try this method to fix your fob if none of the above methods work: remove the battery from both the fob and the car for around ten minutes, then reconnect them in a reverse order. This could cause the system to restart, and in certain cases, this will fix the issue without any other steps.
When you're playing around with the fob, ensure to keep it away from water and other potential dangers. A fob can be pretty robust, but it's crucial to treat it with care if you want it to last as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting techniques above help, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped or trampled upon, or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it may not be able to be repaired and will need an upgrade. If this is the case, be sure to shop around for a deal before making your final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care, it's a fact of the road that car key fobs will occasionally fail to function. It's costly to replace yours when it is lost and especially when you don't have a spare. "You may end up paying between $50 and $100 for a replacement and having it programmed by the dealer, plus mechanical backups that could cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob's device to stop working is a basic issue, such as an insufficient battery. 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 need to contact an expert.
A locksmith will be capable of helping you locate the lost fob or have it replaced. A locksmith will probably know the reason why your fob stopped working in the first place. If your car is older and doesn't have smart technology built in, you can still save money by recording the key number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind a keychain with an ornamental design. If you're looking to change the programming of the key fob of your car the locksmith can do it much more quickly.
If your current key fob is a smart key of the present, you'll have to visit an auto dealer or locksmith to deprogram it before getting a new one made which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from getting access to the car. And that means the locksmith must have an exclusive programing tool that only the vehicle manufacturer has, which adds to the overall expense.
In most instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, including any costs to reprogram the new key fob. Depending on the vehicle, that can run from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a car dealer.