Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs in modern vehicles are very efficient and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. In many cases, a simple replacement or repair is all it takes to bring them back into working order.
Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which can be found in auto parts and hardware stores. But before you call an expert, try a few DIY fixes!
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery of the key fob powers the remote you have in your car and in push-to start cars, it can start your engine. As a result, it is crucial to maintain a healthy, working battery. When you're on the go and your key fob is not working, it can be a huge problem. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can fix it quickly.
The loss of range and signal strength are among the most commonly observed indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require more effort.
It is common to find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a large box retailer or online. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are available 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 vehicles require a particular size or type of battery that is not always available at big-box stores. Make sure to verify before you buy.
The battery is usually located on the back of the key fob. It can be removed with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade by prying the case open. It is likely to look like an ordinary coin and will be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus symbols so that you can place the new battery properly. After the replacement battery is inserted, gently snap both pieces of the fob together. Then test the buttons to make sure they function.
It's important to note that when your key fob is unable to not function even after a battery replacement, it might have been deprogrammed. In this case you will require a locksmith needed to help you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery in the key fob.
Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery is dead. Schedule an appointment to see all of the services we provide 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, it could be an indication of a problem with signaling. Radio signals are used to send messages between your car and key fob. Inconsistent or weak radio signals can lead to poor performance and range.
The battery level of your fob is a good idea, since it can affect signal sensitivity. https://click4r.com/posts/g/17163273/ is also recommended to reset the settings on your fob that can help get 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 resource.
Other factors, like interference from other devices operating at the same frequency can also cause weak signals. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob could affect the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A blown fuse, broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob may affect signal transmission and cause the remote to function properly.
There are a few simple steps you can take to try and resolve the issue of weak signals from your fob, such as resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn out, it's time to replace it completely.
Also, don't forget if you have a spare key fob that comes with your vehicle, it can be used in place of the primary remote in case it begins to fail. Try this method first to see if it can resolve the issue before buying another remote. In this case it could be the right the right time to contact an auto-locksmith professional. They will be able to identify the issue and suggest the best course of action.
Physical Damage
It's not unusual for key fobs to have problems from time to time. Most of these issues are not complex or serious and can be resolved with a few simple steps. It's a good idea to keep spare batteries or a different fob on hand in case your key ceases to work.
The most common reason for car keys not working is a dead battery. These little devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and can be found at most pharmacies, grocery stores and places that sell electronic products. You can access the fob's case using an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pull out the battery. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged or loose. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours may require a different kind.
If your device loses pairing, it may also stop responding to buttons. This can happen due to a number of factors, including changing the batteries, but is generally simple for an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to fix.
If none of the solutions above work, you can try this trick: unplug the batteries from the car and fob for a short period of time, then reconnect the two in reverse order. This could trigger a restart within the system and in some cases it will solve the issue without having to do any of the other steps.
While you're testing the fob, make sure to keep it clear of water and other potential damage sources. The fob is a durable device but you need to treat it with care to ensure it lasts for as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting procedures above help, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped and trampled or exposed to extreme conditions, it might not be repairable and will need an upgrade. Shop around to find the most competitive price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs can sometimes fail 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 for an equivalent replacement from a dealer and get it programmed, as well as a new mechanical backup, which could cost you at least another $100," says Mel Yu, an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob's device to not function is a simple problem, such as a weak battery. You can try replacing the battery on your own If you are familiar with the procedure or get instructions from your owner's manual. If that doesn't work you'll have to call an expert.
A locksmith will be in a position to assist you in finding your lost fob, or get it replaced. A locksmith will likely know why your fob stopped functioning in the first in the first place. If your car is an older model with no built-in smart technology it is possible to save money by finding the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain) and recording it in a safe place--such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a brand new key fob to your car if you ever need to do so.
If your existing key fob is a smart key of the present and you want to change it, you'll need to go to an auto dealer or locksmith to deprogram it and get a new one made which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by rolling-code encryption which stops thieves from getting access to your car. This means that the locksmith must be equipped with a specific software program that is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.
In most cases, you'll need 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 dealership for cars.