A Brief History Of Car Key Fob Repair History Of Car Key Fob Repair
Car Key Fob RepairsKey fobs today do much more than just unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can result in costly repairs if one of them breaks.
The positive side is that many fobs have flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. It is possible that a simple reset is enough to make your fob work again.
Battery Replacement
The most common reason a key fob stops working is because of an inoperative battery. This is easy to fix, and it's worth trying before you spend money on a new fob. Simply take your car to a local auto parts store or hardware retailer that sells button cells and choose a replacement. You can also consult your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to find specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery in your fob.
You'll need to gently pry apart the sides of most fobs in order to access the battery. You'll require a small flat-bladed screwdriver, or a different tool with a small blade. You can insert your tool into a notch on the bottom of the key fob. It is also advisable to keep an eye for tiny pieces that could break loose while working.
Once you have the new battery, place it in the same way that you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons, while the opposite side is facing (-) the marks on the battery compartment.
Test the fob to see whether it is working by pressing the button. If it fails, it may be a problem with your car that needs to be repaired or replaced by a specialist.
Some key fobs require special tools to open, and the contacts inside can be fragile and susceptible to corroding. In these instances an expert in the field or dealer may be the best option. When replacing a battery be patient and follow your owner's guide. You might be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer however, you'll need to consult your owner's manual to make sure that it's the right one for your vehicle.
Replace the internal key
To guard against theft, many key fobs come with a mechanical key hidden inside. When the battery in a fob dies it will leave a blank key left behind that can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In some cases, this key can even start certain vehicles. Most people aren't aware of this however, they can save themselves from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob's battery. The flat watch-style battery is used in most modern fobs. These batteries are easily found at hardware and auto parts stores. It is essential to choose the correct type of battery. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry, which can cause the fob to fail sooner.
If you replace the battery, and the issue is still there, it could be an indication that something else is wrong in your vehicle. Check your owner's manual to determine if there's an option to reset the fob and restore the fob's factory programming. If that doesn't help you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.
Fobs can also fail due to faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually located near the steering wheel or on the dashboard. They transmit signals to enable you to unlock your car and start it with the fob. If you notice that you're having to get closer and closer to your car in order to make it work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working.
It could be necessary for a professional to remove the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually suffice, but certain fobs require a special tool or a special piece of equipment which can only be found at a dealership. This is a job that should be done by a certified mechanic in order to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that's not working may simply need a new battery. These batteries are readily available in home improvement and pharmacy stores and are affordable. This is a good method to start before you purchase a new key fob.
Alternatively, you may be able to re-program the fob on your own by following the steps. The procedure varies for different vehicle manufacturers, so it is important to consult your owner's manual and research the specifics of your model. One key fob could require that the ignition be turned on while changing the program. Another might need the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.
The process is straightforward. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Then, get into 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 can communicate with the vehicle correctly. Place the old key in the ignition, turn it ON however, do not start the engine. Then, press the lock button on the fob while aiming it at the transmission receiver, which is typically located on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will notify the vehicle within a short amount of time that it's being programmed. This can be done by cycling the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This can be a tricky procedure, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.
If the key fob does not work after reprogramming it, try using new batteries. If the issue persists, a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or locksmiths should be considered. A professional will have all the tools and equipment to reprogram the car fob, or even create a brand new one if needed.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs between $200 and $250, depending on the model of vehicle. But he's had to turn away customers with European models because there's no equipment required. The majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always inquire with your local car dealer to determine the price.
How do I get a brand new fob
If your key fob is beyond repair, you might require a new one. Depending on the brand and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive alternative for replacing a fob, but they will also have all of the necessary tools and software to program your vehicle correctly. If you're looking for a cheaper solution, many independent locksmiths can provide you with an entirely new car key fob for a much more reasonable price.
It is a good thing to try to reset your current device before you make the decision to purchase a new one. The owner's manual should outline the correct procedure for reset. It is typically a series button presses that reset the factory program.
You should also check the owner's manual and warranty information to see whether you can obtain an additional key fob. If your car is still under warranty, or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership with bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be eligible for reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.
Getting a fob is easy enough however, finding the right location to do it can be a challenge. You might want to visit the dealer key fob repair service near me for this service if you are driving a brand new car and are looking to feel secure knowing that your keyfobs are working properly. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service at a lower price.
A professional locksmith is a great choice for those who aren't comfortable with this type of work. They are trained and equipped to replace or reprogram key fobs for cars of all types, and can do so quickly. A locksmith can also come to your house or office which is a great option for many people. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost them, which is ideal for those who do not want to leave their vehicles unattended.