Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Key fobs on modern vehicles perform a lot of work and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. Often a simple repair or replacement is all that's needed to get them working again.
The majority of fobs are powered by a flat watch-style batteries. This can be found in auto parts and hardware stores. Before you call a professional, try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery of the key fob powers your remote in your car, and in push-to-start cars it will start your engine. It is therefore crucial to keep a functioning, healthy battery. A dead key fob can be a major problem when you're on-the-go. A simple, low-cost replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The most common sign that a key fob battery is failing is the decrease in signal strength and range. You may also notice the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require additional effort.
A new key fob is available in the auto parts section of a major retailer or on the internet. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. Consult your owner's guide before you decide on the best battery. Certain cars require a specific size or kind of battery that's not always readily available at big-box stores So, make sure you know the right specs before you buy.
Typically the battery is situated on the back of your key fob and can be removed by prying the case open using an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. It is usually shaped like the shape of a small coin, and be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus signs in order to place the new battery properly. After the battery has been replaced then gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together and test the buttons.
It's important to note that if your key fob continues to stop functioning, even after a battery replacement, it may have been deprogrammed. In this case you'll need to call a locksmith for help and it will cost you a bit more than replacing the battery in your key fob.
If your fob's battery is failing or you're experiencing other issues with your fob's key an experienced mechanic such as one from YourMechanic can examine and fix it to get you back on the road. Make sure to look over all of our services in your area and make an appointment today!
Weak Signals
If you find that your key fob isn't responding to buttons on the remote, this can be a sign of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, and weak or inconsistent signals could cause poor performance and range.
One of the first things to check is whether or not your fob's battery is insufficient because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings of the fob can also help restore a more consistent response. The process varies from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or a phone call to the helpline of the manufacturer will likely be your best source of information here.
Other factors, including interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency, can also contribute to weak signals. Power lines, 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 inside your vehicle.
The physical damage to your keyfob can interfere with the transmission of radio signal, resulting in low performance and a limited range. A blown fuse, broken or cracked buttons, or a bent fob case could interfere with the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.
There are a few easy steps you can try to and resolve the issue of weak fob signals such as resetting the fob's settings or replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn out, it might be time to replace it.
Don't forget to use the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. It's worth trying this solution to see if it solves the issue before you invest in an entirely new one. In this instance it may be time to call a professional auto-locksmith. They will be able to identify the issue and recommend the best way to proceed.
Physical Damage
Key fobs may have issues from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these problems are not complicated or a major issue and can be solved with some simple steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or even another key fob in the event that one of your keys ever stops working.
A dead battery is the most frequent cause of a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion buttons or coin cell batteries. These batteries are easily replaceable and are available at most pharmacies and stores. Open the fob's case with an screwdriver that is flat and gently pull out the battery that you have. Check to see if it's loose or damaged and then insert a new battery. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours might require a different type.
If your device loses pairing, it could stop responding to buttons. auto key repair g28carkeys can happen due to a number of reasons, including changing the batteries, but it is typically a simple issue to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to fix.
If none of the methods above work, you can try this method: disconnect the battery from the car and fob for a few minutes and then connect them in the opposite order. This could cause the system to restart and in certain cases it can fix the issue without any other steps.
Keep the fob out of water or other sources of damage while playing around. The fob is quite durable, but it's important to take care with it when you want it to last as long as possible.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above are helpful, 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 repairable and will require an upgrade. If that's the case, make sure to shop around for a deal before making your final choice.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs may sometimes stop working. It's costly to replace yours in the event that you lose it and especially if you do not have an alternative. "You could end up paying $50 or more to get a new replacement from the dealer and then have 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 among the most frequent reasons for a keyfob's device to cease to function. If you are aware of how to change the battery, or if your owner's guide has instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't work, you'll have to call an expert.
A locksmith can be able to help you find the lost fob or have it replaced. A locksmith will probably know the reason why your fob stopped working in the first in the first place. If your car is older and doesn't include smart technology however, you can save money by recording the number plate of your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain. If you're looking to change the programming of the key fob of your car, the locksmith can do it more easily.
If your key fob is an old smart key, it'll need to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This could cost more than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from getting access to the car. And that means the locksmith needs to have an exclusive programming tool that only the car manufacturer has, which increases the overall expense.
In most instances, the entire service will be billed at one time. This includes any charges for reprogramming a new keyfob. Based on the car, that can run from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a dealership for cars.