Ten Fob Key Repairs That Really Make Your Life Better

Key Fob Replacement and Repair

The key fobs found in modern vehicles perform a lot of work and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. In most cases, an easy repair or replacement is all it takes to make them functional again.

Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style battery, which is easily found in hardware and auto parts stores. Before you call in a professional, do some of the DIY fixes.

Dead key repair near me Fob Battery

The battery for the key fob power the remote function in your car and, with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. It is therefore essential to keep a functioning healthy and a good battery. A dead key fob is an issue when you're traveling. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can fix it quickly.

The loss of range and signal strength are the most frequent indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. You might also find that the buttons on your fob do not work or require extra effort to turn on.

It is common to find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box retailer or online. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you shop for the right battery. Certain cars require a certain size or type of battery, which isn't always readily available at big-box stores. Be sure to check before you buy.

The battery is usually found in the back of the key fob. It is removed using a flat-bladed screwdriver by prying the case open. The battery will look similar to an ordinary coin and will be labeled according to its size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus signs to ensure that you insert the battery correctly. Once the battery replacement is inserted, gently snap both pieces of the fob in place and test the buttons to ensure they work.

It's worth noting that if your key fob continues to not function even after a battery replacement, it may have been deprogrammed. In this case it is likely that a locksmith will be required to assist you. This is more expensive than replacing the key fob's battery.

The skilled mechanics at YourMechanic are able to repair your key fob if it is damaged or if the battery has failed. Set up an appointment to review all the services we provide in your local area.

Weak Signals

If your key fob doesn't respond to the buttons of the remote it could indicate that the signaling system is not working correctly. Your car and key fob are dependent on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor performance and range.

One of the first things to check is whether or not your fob's battery is insufficient since this can greatly impact signal sensitivity. It's also advisable to reset the settings of your fob and help restore an even and consistent response from the car. The procedure will differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to your manufacturer's support line is the best source of information.

Other factors, including interference from other devices operating on the same frequency can also affect weak signals. Power lines and other key fobs wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.

Physical damage to your keyfob can interfere with the transmission of radio signal, which can result in lower performance and less range. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or bent fob case could interfere with the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.

You can attempt to fix the problem by resetting the settings on your fob, or by replacing the battery. However, if your fob is worn out, it's probably time to replace it altogether.

Also, don't forget if you have a spare key fob that is part of your vehicle, this can be used instead of the primary remote if it starts to fail. You should test this option first to determine if you can solve the issue prior to buying a new remote. If not, this might be the perfect time to contact a professional auto locksmith. They can identify the issue and recommend the best course of actions.

Physical Damage

It's not uncommon for key fobs to experience issues from time-to-time. Most of these problems aren't complicated or serious and can be resolved by following a few easy steps. It's important to have spare batteries or even an additional fob in case one of your keys ever fails to work.

A dead battery is the most common reason for a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They are easily replaced and can be purchased at most pharmacies and stores. You can open the case of the fob using a flat-headed screwdriver and gently remove the battery you have. Check to see if it's damaged or loose and then put in a new battery. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours may require a different kind.

If your device loses its pairing, it could cease to respond to buttons. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including changing the batteries, but it is generally simple for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to fix.

If none of the methods above work, try this trick: disconnect the batteries from the car and fob for a short period of time and then connect them in reverse order. This could trigger a reboot within the system and in some cases this will fix the issue without requiring any of the other steps.

When you're playing around with the fob, repairs make sure to keep it out of water and other potential damage sources. The fob is tough, but you should take care with it to ensure that it lasts for as long as you can.

If all of the suggestions above do not help, it may be time to think about replacing your key fob. If it's been thrown and trampled or exposed to harsh environmental conditions, it could not be able to be repaired and may require an upgrade. Shop around to find the most affordable price.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care keys to cars may fail to function. It can be expensive to replace yours if you lose it and especially when you don't have an extra. "You may end up paying between $50 and $100 for a new one and getting it programmed by the dealer, plus a mechanical backup that will cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is among the most frequent reasons for a keyfob to cease to function. Try changing the battery yourself If you are familiar with the procedure or get instructions from the owner's manual. If that doesn't work you'll have to call an expert.

A locksmith is capable of helping you locate your lost fob, or get it replaced. A locksmith can probably tell you the reason your fob stopped working in the first in the first place. If your car is old and does not have smart technology built in it is still possible to save money by recording the key's number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain. If you're in need of reprogramming the key fob of your car locksmith is able to do it more easily.

If your key fob is an older smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This can cost more than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that locksmiths need an exclusive programming tool that only the car manufacturer has, which increases the overall expense.

In most instances, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes the cost of programming a new key fob. This can range from $20 in some stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, depending on the model of vehicle.