The 10 Scariest Things About Car Key Fob Repair

Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do a lot more than unlock and start cars. But that extra complexity can result in costly repairs when one of them fails.

It's important to know that a majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which can be easily replaced at home. And you may find that a reset can bring it back to life.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most common reason for a key fob not working. It's simple to fix and worth trying before you purchase a replacement fob. Simply drive your car to a local auto parts store or a hardware retailer that carries button cell batteries and purchase a replacement. You can also consult your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) for specific instructions on how to replace and open the battery inside your fob.

You'll need to gently pry off the sides of many fobs in order to access the battery. You'll need a small, flat-bladed screwdriver, or another tool with a blade that is thin. You can put your tool into a notch at the bottom of the key fob. You may also want to keep an eye for tiny pieces that might break loose while you work.

Insert the new battery in the same manner as you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons and the negative (-) the marks on the compartment for the battery.

Push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, you may have a problem with your car that requires a specialist to fix or replace.

Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close them, and the contacts inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases, a car specialist or dealer may be your best option. When replacing a battery, be gentle and follow your owner's manual. You might be able find a similar battery at a discounter or a big-box retailer, but you'll need to consult your owner's manual to ensure that it matches your car.

Replace the internal key

To prevent theft, most key fobs are equipped with an electronic key inside. When the battery in the fob dies it will leave an internal key that is blank which can open doors and trunks (and in some cases start certain cars). The majority of people do not realize that they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The flat watch-style battery is used in the majority of modern fobs. They can be found at auto parts stores and hardware stores. It is important to use the correct type of battery. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry, which can cause the fob to fail sooner.

If you change the battery and find the problem persists it could be a sign that something else is happening with your car. If you have an owner's manual, check to see if a reset procedure is available to restore the fob's factory programming. If this doesn't work, you'll need 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. They are typically placed on the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they send signals that allow you to unlock and start your car with the fob. If you're having to get closer and closer to your car to be able to make it work, there's a good possibility that the transmitter is not working.

It may be required for a professional to open the case of the fob in order to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually work, however some fobs require a specialized tool or a special piece of equipment that can only be purchased at a dealer. It is a good idea to have a qualified mechanic perform this task so you don't damage the fob or hurt yourself.

Reprogramming the key repairs

Often a non-functional key fob just requires a new battery. Because these batteries are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's an excellent first step prior to investing in a new car key fob.

Alternately, you might be able to program the fob on your own by following a few basic steps. The procedure varies for different vehicle makes, so it's important to consult your owner's manual as well as research the specifics of your particular model. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be turned on while reprogramming it. Another may require the key to be removed and inserted repeatedly.

The procedure is simple. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle properly. After that, put the old key back in the ignition and turn it on to the ON position, but 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 car above the mirror. The key will inform the vehicle within a short period of time that it is being programmed. This can be accomplished by turning off the door locks or by emitting an audible chime. This can be a tricky process, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.

If the mobile key repair near me fob doesn't work, try reprogramming it again with new batteries. If the problem persists then a visit to your car key fob repairs near me dealer or locksmiths should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and programming equipment necessary to re-program your car's fob or clone a new key if it's required.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for $200-$250, depending on the car. However, he's had to turn away customers with European models because he doesn't have the expensive equipment they require. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs are programmable however it's best to check with a car dealer first to find out the price.

How do I get a new fob

If your key fob is damaged beyond repair car remote control key, you could need to get an entirely new one. Based on the make 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 However, they'll have the necessary tools and software needed to program your car correctly. For a more affordable solution, a variety of locksmiths can provide you with a brand-new car key fob at a lower price.

It is a good thing to try to reset the fob you have before you make the decision to purchase a new one. The owner's manual should explain the proper procedure for reset, which is usually just a series of button pushes that reset the factory settings.

You should also check the owner's manual and warranty information to determine whether you are eligible for an additional key fob. If your car is still under warranty or you have a broken car key repair near me-insurance policy or auto club membership that includes bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.

Finding a fob is simple enough however finding the best location to get it done can be tricky. If you have a relatively new car and want the assurance with knowing that your keys fobs are in good working condition, you may prefer going to the dealership to get this service. If you are looking for a more affordable alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service for an affordable cost.

If you're not comfortable doing this type of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a great choice. They are trained and equipped to reprogram or replace the majority of car key fobs and often, they can do it quickly. In addition, a locksmith can often come to your workplace or home to complete the task, which can be very useful for certain people. They can even cut and program keys on the spot if you have lost keys, which is great for those who do not want to leave their cars unattended.