Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs of today can do more than unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can result in expensive repair costs when one of them fails.

It's important to know that the majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries that can be replaced at home. You may even find that a reset will get yours working again.

Battery Replacement

The most common reason a key fob stops working is due to a dead battery. It's easy to repair and worth a try before you purchase the replacement fob. You can buy an additional button cell battery at your local auto parts store or hardware retailer in the event that you already have one. You can also refer to your owner's manual (or in the case that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos of people who explain how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery on your particular type of fob.

You'll need to gently pry off the sides of many fobs to reach the battery. You'll require a small flat-bladed screwdriver or another tool with a small blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the lower edge of the fob that you can place your tool between. It is also advisable to watch out for small pieces that may come loose as you work.

Install the new battery in the same way you removed the old one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the markings inside the battery compartment of your fob.

Test the fob to see if it works by pushing the button. If it doesn't, you might have an issue with your vehicle that requires a professional to fix or replace.

Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close them, and the contacts inside can be fragile and easily corroded. In these situations an expert in the field or a dealer could be the best choice. When replacing a battery be gentle and follow the owner's instructions. You might be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or big-box retailer but you'll have to refer to your owner's manual to make sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.

Replacing the Internal Key

To protect against theft, the majority of key fobs have a mechanical key hidden inside. If the battery of the fob fails it will leave an internal key blank that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases start certain vehicles). Most people don't realize that they can avoid a trip to the dealership by recharging the fob batteries. The flat watch-style batteries are used in the majority of modern fobs. These batteries can be located at hardware and auto parts stores. Choosing the right type of battery is essential however. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry, which can cause the fob to fail sooner.

If you replace the battery and discover that the problem persists it could be a sign something else is happening in your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if there's a reset procedure that will restore the fob to factory programming. If this doesn't work you'll have to visit a dealership 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 close to the steering wheel, or on the dashboard. They transmit signals to enable you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. If you're having to get closer and closer to your vehicle to get it to work, there's a great chance that the transmitter isn't working.

A professional might need to open 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 that can only be found at a dealer. This is a job that should be performed by a certified mechanic in order to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that's not working may simply need an upgrade in battery. Because they are cheap and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is the ideal first step before purchasing a new car key repair shop near me key fob.

You can also change the programming of your key fob by yourself If you follow a few basic steps. This process varies between vehicle manufacturers, so it is important to consult your owner's manual and vehicle study the specifics of your particular model. For instance one key fob could require the ignition to be turned on while reprogramming it. Another might need the key to be removed and inserted several times.

The basic procedure is simple. First, make sure that the new battery is securely in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure the new key is communicating with the vehicle correctly. Put the old key in the ignition and 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 usually situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. Within a brief time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's been programmed by turning off the doors' locks or generating a chime. This is a difficult procedure, so pay attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.

If the key fob won't work after reprogramming, try using a new battery. If the issue isn't resolved then a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or locksmiths should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment required to reprogram your car fob or design a new one if necessary.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs at around $200 to $250, based on the vehicle. Genesky has been denied European models rejected because they don't have the equipment required. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmable but it's always recommended to consult a car keys repairs near me dealer first to find out what the cost is.

Finding a New Fob

If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you might require an alternative. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive alternative for replacing a fob however, they'll have all of the necessary tools and software to program your vehicle correctly. If you are looking for a less expensive solution, many independent locksmiths can provide you with a brand-new car key fob for a much more reasonable cost.

Before you purchase a new key fob, it is an excellent idea to try resetting your current device. The owner's manual should explain the proper reset procedure which is typically a series of button pushes that reset it to factory programming.

It is an excellent idea to read the owner's manual and warranty information before deciding the best place to get a key fob replacement. If your vehicle is 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 an entirely new fob.

Finding the right place to get a fob can be difficult. If you have a relatively new vehicle and you want the assurance with knowing that your key fobs are in good working order, you may be better off going to the dealership for this service. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service at less cost.

A professional locksmith is a great option for those who aren't comfortable with this kind of work. They're trained and equipped to replace or reprogram car key fobs of all kinds and can do it quickly. Additionally, locksmiths can often come to your home or office to do the job, which can be very convenient for some people. They can even cut and program keys on the spot when you've lost keys, which is great for those who don't like to leave their vehicles unattended.