Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do a lot more than unlock and start cars. But that extra complexity can cause expensive repair costs when one of them fails.
It's good to know that the majority of fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries that can be replaced at home. It is possible that a simple reset is enough to bring your fob back to life.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a key fob that isn't working. It's simple to solve and is worth a try before you spend money on the replacement fob. Simply take your car to an hardware or auto parts retailer that sells button cell batteries and purchase the replacement. You can also consult the owner's manual (or in the event that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people who show you how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery on your particular type of fob.
Most fobs have two halves that snap together -- you'll need to gently pry the sides apart 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 along the lower edge of the fob that you can place your tool between. It is also advisable to watch out for tiny pieces that might break loose while you work.
When you have your new battery, place it in the same way that you removed the old one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing up towards the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned with the markings in the battery compartment of your fob.
Check the fob to determine whether it is working by pressing the button. If it fails, it could be a problem in your vehicle that requires to be fixed or replaced by a professional.
Certain key fobs are difficult to open and their contacts may be brittle and easily corrosion-prone. In these cases, a car specialist or dealer may be your best option. If you need to replace batteries, you should be gentle and follow the instructions that are specific to your owner's manual. You may be able find an identical battery at a big-box retailer or discounter, however, make sure to check the owner's manual to make sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.
Replacing the Internal Key
To guard against theft, many key fobs have an electronic key inside. If the battery inside a fob dies and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind, which can be used to unlock doors and trunks. In certain cases the key could even start certain cars. Most people aren't aware of this however they could avoid having to go to the dealership by simply replacing the fob's battery. The flat watch-style batteries are used in the majority of modern fobs. They can be located at hardware stores and auto parts stores. The right kind of battery is essential however. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry and cause the fob's failure earlier.
If you change the battery and find the issue is still there it could be a sign something else is going on with your car. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if you have a reset procedure that will restore the fob's factory programming. If this doesn't work, you'll have visit a dealership or a shop independent that specializes in vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.
Fobs may also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically placed on the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car using the fob. You may have to move closer to your car to enable it.
A professional may need to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually do the job however some fobs come with complex release mechanisms that require a specialized tool or specialized equipment available only at a dealer. This is a job that must be handled by a qualified mechanic to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Often a non-functional key fob just requires a new battery. Because they are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's the ideal first step before investing in a new car key fob.
You can also change the programming of your key fob yourself if you follow the steps below. The procedure varies for different vehicle makes, so it's important to refer to the owner's manual and research the specifics of the model you own. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be turned on while reprogramming it. Another might need the key to be inserted and removed several times.
The basic procedure is simple. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Then, get in the driver's seat and close all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure the new car key remote repair near me fob is communicating with the vehicle properly. After that, put the old key back into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Then press the lock button on the fob, while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually located on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will inform the vehicle within a brief amount of time that it is being programmed. This can be accomplished by cycling the door locks or by emitting an audible chime. This is a challenging procedure, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.
If the key fob doesn't work try reprogramming it with fresh batteries. If the issue persists, you may want to visit your local locksmith or dealer. A professional will have all the tools and equipment required to reprogram your car fob, or even create a brand new one, if required.
Genesky claims he is able to program newer fobs between $200 and $250, depending on the model of vehicle. However, he's had to turn down customers who have European models due to the fact that there's no equipment they require. Fortunately, many aftermarket fobs are programmable, but it's always best to talk to a car dealer first to see what their price is.
How to get a new fob
If your key fob is beyond repair, you may need to purchase an entirely new one. Depending on the make and model, the dealer or an auto locksmith might be able to assist. The dealership will likely be the most expensive alternative for replacing a fob However, they'll have all the required tools and software needed to program your vehicle correctly. For a more affordable solution, a variety of locksmiths can offer you a brand-new car key fob at a lower cost.
It is a good thing to attempt to reset the fob you have before you make the decision to purchase another one. The owner's manual will outline the proper reset procedure which is typically the pushing of a button that reset it to factory programming.
It is also a good idea to read your owner's manual as well as warranty information before deciding which place to go for a key fob replacement. If your car's warranty is in good standing or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could qualify to receive a reimbursement for the cost of replacing the fob.
Finding a fob is simple enough however, finding the right location to do it isn't easy. If you own a new vehicle and you want the security from knowing that your key fobs are in working condition, you may be better off visiting the dealership to get this service. If you're seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that can provide the same service for a lower price.
If you're not confident handling this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a great choice. They are skilled and equipped to repair or replace most types of car key fobs and they can often do it quickly. A locksmith can also come to your office or home, which is convenient for many people. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost keys, which is great for those who don't like to leave their cars in the dark.