The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Car Key Fob Repair

Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today can do much more than unlock and start vehicles. However, that added complexity can cause expensive repair car remote control key costs if one of them breaks.

The good news is that most fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You might find that a simple reset is enough to make your fob work again.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most frequent cause of the fob's key not working. This is a simple repair, and is worth trying before you spend money on a new key fob. Take your car to an auto parts store or a hardware retailer that carries button cells and choose an alternative. You can also consult your owner's manual (or, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people who show you how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery on the specific type of fob you have.

You'll need to gently pull away the sides of the majority of fobs to reach the battery. You'll need a small, flat-bladed screwdriver, or a different tool with a small blade. It might help to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob that you can use to place your tool between. You might also want to look for small pieces that could fall off while working.

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

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

Certain key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts may be fragile and easily damaged. In these situations an expert in the field or a dealer could be the best option. If you're in need of replacing the battery, make sure to be very gentle and follow the specific instructions in the owner's manual. You may be able find a battery similar in a big-box store or discounter, but be sure you read your owner's guide to ensure that it's compatible with your car.

Replace the internal key

To prevent theft, most key repair fobs are equipped with an electronic key inside. When the fob battery dies it will leave an internal key blank which can open doors and trunks (and in some cases, start certain vehicles). A majority of people don't realize they can avoid a trip to the dealership by recharging the fob batteries. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat watches-style batteries that are easy to find at hardware stores and auto parts shops. It is important to use the right type of battery. A bad battery can damage the electronic car key repair near me circuitry, causing the fob to fail much faster.

If you change the battery and discover that the issue is still there, it could be an indication that something else is wrong 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 help, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.

Fobs can also fail due to faulty transmitter receivers. They are usually found close to the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals that allow you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. You may need to get closer to the car to make it work.

It could be required for a professional to access the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually work, however some fobs require a specialized tool or a special piece of equipment that can only be found at a dealership. It's best to have a qualified mechanic perform this task so you don't break the fob or injure yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that's not working might just need a new battery. Because they are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is the ideal first step before buying a new car key fob.

Alternately, you might be able to program the fob yourself by following a few basic steps. This process can vary between vehicles, so it is recommended to read the owner's manual and research the model you have. For example one key fob could require the ignition to be switched on while reprogramming the key. Another might need the key repair shop near me to be removed and inserted several times.

The process is straightforward. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Place the old key in the ignition and turn it ON but don't start the engine. Next, press the lock button on the fob while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is typically situated on the front of the car above the mirror. The key lock repair near me will notify the vehicle within a short amount of time that it is being programmed. This can be done by turning the door locks, or emitting an audible chime. This is a difficult process, so pay attention to timing and don't over-press the button.

If the key fob won't work after reprogramming it, try using new batteries. If the issue persists then a visit to your car dealer or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional will have the tools and equipment necessary to re-program your car's fob, or create an entirely new key if needed.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, based on the vehicle. However, he's had to turn down customers who have European models due to the fact that they don't have the costly equipment they require. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but you should always inquire with your local dealer to determine the cost.

How to get a new fob

If your key fob is damaged beyond repair, you could require an alternative. Based on the model and make, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob However, they'll have the necessary tools and software needed to programme your vehicle properly. If you're looking for a cheaper solution, many independent locksmiths can provide you with new car keys for a much more reasonable price.

Before you decide to purchase an entirely new device it's a good idea to try resetting your current one. The owner's manual will outline the proper reset procedure, which is usually just the pushing of a button that reset it to factory programming.

You should also look over your owner's guide and warranty information to determine whether you are eligible for an alternative fob for your key. If your car's warranty is in good standing or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper, you may qualify for a reimbursement on the cost of replacing the fob.

Finding a fob is simple enough, but finding the right location to get it done isn't easy. If you have a relatively new car and want the security with knowing that your keys fobs are in good condition, you might prefer going to the dealership to get this service. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service for a lower price.

A locksmith professional is a great option for those who aren't comfortable with this kind of work. They're trained and equipped to change or reprogram keys for cars of all kinds, and can do so quickly. A locksmith can also come to your house or office, which is convenient for a lot of people. They can cut and program keys on the spot in case you've lost keys. This is great for those who don't want to leave their car unattended.