Key Fob Replacement and Repair

Modern car key fobs are used a great deal and are often abused. Sometimes, a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to make them functional again.

Most fobs run on a flat watch-style battery, which is readily available in auto parts and hardware stores. Before calling in an expert, try a few DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery in the key fob's remote powers your car's remote and, in push-to-start vehicles it will start your engine. It is therefore important to keep a functioning, healthy battery. A dead key fob is a major problem when you're traveling. A simple, affordable replacement will fix the problem quickly.

The most obvious indication that a key fob battery is dying is the decrease in signal strength and range. It is also possible to find 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 store or on the internet. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. However, it's a good idea to consult your owner's manual before shopping for the right battery for your vehicle. Certain cars require a specific size or kind of battery that's not always readily available at big-box retailers Be sure to be aware of the correct specifications before you purchase.

The battery is typically located in the back of the key fob. It can be removed with a flat-bladed screwdriver by opening the case. The battery will appear like an ordinary coin and will be labeled based on its size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols so that you can place the new battery properly. Once the battery replacement is placed in the fob, gently snap both pieces of the fob together and test each button to make sure they function.

It's worth noting that, when your key fob is unable to not function, even after a battery replacement, it could have been deprogrammed. In this instance you'll need to call a locksmith for help which will cost some more than replacing the key fob battery.

Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery has died. Make sure you check out all of our services available in your area and make an appointment now!

Weak Signals

If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to the buttons on the remote key fob repairs, it could be an indication of a problem with the signaling. Radio signals are used to communicate between your car and the key fob. Weak or inconsistent radio signals can lead to low performance and limited range.

One of the first things you should determine is if the battery of your fob is depleted, as this can significantly impact signal sensitivity. It's also worth resetting the fob's settings that can help bring back an even and consistent response from the car. The procedure will differ from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a call to your manufacturer's support number is your best guide.

Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, for example, interference from other devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices could interfere with the signal RF (radio-frequency) signals your key fob transmits to connect to the vehicle's receiver.

Physical damage to your keyfob can affect the transmission of RF signal, leading to poor performance and range. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked buttons or a bent case can all interfere with the transmission of signals, causing the remote to not respond.

There are some simple steps you can take to try and fix the problem of weak fob signals, for example, resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. However, if your fob is damaged, it's the time to replace it all over again.

Lastly, don't forget that if you have an extra key fob which comes with your vehicle, it could be used as a replacement for the primary remote in the event that it starts to fail. You should test this option first to see if you can resolve the issue before buying an entirely new remote. If not, this might be the right time to consult an expert auto locksmith. They will be able to identify the issue and recommend the best course of actions.

Physical Damage

Key fobs can have problems occasionally. Fortunately, most of these problems are not serious or complex and can be solved with a few easy steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or an additional fob in case one of your keys ceases to function.

The most common reason for a car key fob not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion buttons or coin cell batteries. They are easy to replace and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and shops which sell electronic items. You can access the fob's shell with a flat head screwdriver and gently pull out the existing battery. Make sure it's not loose or damaged and then insert the new battery. Most fobs require CR2032 batteries. However, yours might need a different type.

Your fob could also stop responding to buttons when it loses its pairing with the car. This could be due to a variety of factors, including changing the batteries, but is typically a simple issue to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.

You can try this method to fix your fob in the event that none of the above methods work: disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for around ten minutes, and then reconnect them in a reverse order. This could cause the system to restart and in certain cases it can fix the issue without further steps.

Keep the fob clear of water or other sources of harm while you're playing around. The fob is quite sturdy, but you need to treat it with care in order for it to last as long as you can.

If none of the troubleshooting techniques above are helpful, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped, trodden on or subjected to other extreme environmental conditions, it could be damaged beyond repair and requires an upgrade. If this is the case, make sure to shop around to find a bargain before making your final decision.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care, car key fobs may fail to function. It's costly to replace yours in the event that you lose it and especially if you do not have a spare. "You could end up paying $50 or more to get 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 common reasons for a key fob's to stop working is a simple problem, such as an insufficient battery. If you are familiar with how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual contains instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't work, you'll have to call an expert.

A locksmith will be capable of helping you locate your lost fob or get it replaced. A locksmith can probably tell you the reason why your fob stopped working in the first in the first place. If your vehicle is an older model with no built-in smart technology it is possible to save cash by locating the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and recording it in a secure location, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it easier for the locksmith to reprogram a new key fob for your car in the event that you need to do so.

If your current key fob is a smart key of the present, you'll have to visit an auto dealer or locksmith to remove it from the system and have an entirely new one which is more expensive than replacing it. That's because modern key fobs use rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. And that means the locksmith must have an exclusive programming tool that only the car manufacturer has, which adds to the overall cost.

In most instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any charges to reprogram a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle it could cost anywhere from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a car dealer.