Key repairs Fob Replacement and repair car remote control key

The key fobs in modern vehicles are very efficient and are subject to lots of abuse. Sometimes just a simple repair or replacement is all that's required to restore them to good working order.

Most fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to find in auto parts retailers. Before you call in an expert, try some DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

The key fob battery powers the remote function of your car and, with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. It is therefore essential to maintain a working, healthy battery. When you're out and about and your key fob is not working, it can cause a lot of trouble. A simple, low-cost replacement can fix the issue quickly.

The most obvious indication that a key fob's battery is dying is the decrease in signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on the fob don't function or require any effort to turn on.

It is common to find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a large box retailer or online. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. However it's a good idea to consult your owner's manual before you shop for the right battery for your fob. Certain cars require a specific size or type of battery that isn't always readily available at big-box stores So, make sure you know the right specs before you buy.

The battery is usually found in the back of the key fob. It can be removed with a flat-bladed screwdriver by opening the case. The battery will look similar to a small coin and will be identified according to its size. Be sure to note which way the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the battery you are replacing is properly placed. After the replacement battery is inserted, gently snap both pieces of the fob together and test all of the buttons to ensure they work.

It's important to note that if your key fob continues to not function, even after a battery replacement, it could be deprogrammed. In this scenario you'll have to contact a locksmith for help which will cost some more than replacing the battery in your key fob.

Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob if it's damaged or the battery has failed. Set up an appointment to review the range of services we offer in your local area.

Weak Signals

If you find that your key fob isn't responding as you would expect to the buttons on the remote, this can be an indication of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob depend on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor performance and range.

One of the first things to determine is if your fob's battery is low, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. It's also worth resetting the settings of your fob, which can help to restore a more consistent response from the car. The procedure will differ from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a phone call to your manufacturer's support line is your best guide.

Other factors, including interference from other devices operating on the same frequency can also affect weak signals. Other key fobs as well as wireless communication devices could interfere with the RF (radio-frequency) signals your key fob transmits to the receiver of your vehicle.

Damage to your keyfob's physical structure can affect the transmission of an RF signal, which can result in lower performance and less range. A blown fuses, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case of the fob can affect signal transmission and cause the remote to function properly.

There are a few easy steps you can take to try and solve the issue of weak signals from your fob, for example, resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. If, Key Repairs however, your fob is damaged, it's time to replace it completely.

Don't forget to utilize the spare remote that came with your car if your primary remote begins to fail. You should test this option first to determine if you can resolve the issue before buying an entirely new remote. If not, it might be the best time to consult a professional auto locksmith. They will be able to identify the issue and recommend the best way to proceed.

Physical Damage

It's not uncommon for key fobs to have problems from time to time. Most of the time, these issues aren't complex or difficult to fix and can be solved by following a few easy steps. It's a good idea to keep spare batteries or a different fob in case your key ceases to work.

The most frequent cause for car keys not working is the battery is dead. These small devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and places which sell electronic items. The fob's case can be opened using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently remove the battery you have. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged or loose. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours may require a different kind.

The fob may not be responding to buttons when it loses its connection with your vehicle. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including changing the batteries, but is usually easy to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.

If none of the methods above work, you can try this method: disconnect the battery from the car and the fob for a short period of time and then connect them in reverse order. This can force the system to reboot, and in certain cases it will resolve the issue without further steps.

Keep the fob out of water or other sources of damage while experimenting. The fob is tough however, you must treat it with care to ensure that it lasts as long as it can.

If none of the troubleshooting techniques above help you, you may have to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped over, or exposed to other extreme environmental conditions, it could be beyond repair and in need of a replacement. Find the most competitive price.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care, it's a fact of life that car key fobs can occasionally cease to function. If you lose yours, it can be extremely expensive to replace it--especially in the event that you don't have spare. "You could end up paying $50 or more to purchase an alternative from a dealer and get it programmed, and a new mechanical backup which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu, an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.

One of the most frequent reasons for a key fob's device to stop working is a basic issue, such as an insufficient battery. If you are familiar with how to change the battery, or if your owner's guide has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll need to contact an expert.

A locksmith will be able to help you find your lost fob or get it replaced. They will also likely have a good idea of the reason why your fob stopped working in the first place. If your car is older and doesn't have smart technology built in it is still possible to save money by recording the key's number plate of your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind an ornamental keychain. This will make it much easier for the locksmith to reprogram the new key fob to your car in the event that you need to do it.

If your key fob is an old smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This can cost more than simply replacing it. This is because modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from getting into the car. This means that locksmiths must use a special programming tool that is available only to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.

In most instances, the entire service will be billed at one time. This includes any costs for reprogramming a keyfob. It can cost anywhere from $20 in some stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, based on the model of vehicle.