17 Signs You Are Working With Car Key Fob Repair
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today can do more than unlock and start cars. This extra complexity can result in costly repairs when it fails.
The good news is that most fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You may find that a simple reset can bring your fob back to life.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most common cause of a key fob that isn't working. It's easy to fix and worth trying before you purchase a replacement fob. Take your car to an auto parts store or hardware retailer that carries button cell batteries and pick up an alternative. You can also refer to your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to find specific instructions on how to open and replace the battery in your fob.
You'll have to gently pull off the sides of many fobs in order to access the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or some other tool equipped with a thin, flat blade. It's a good idea to look for a notch along the bottom of the fob that you can use to put your tool in between. You may also want to look for tiny pieces that might break loose while you work.
Insert the new battery in the same way as you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons and the negative (-), the markings on the compartment for the battery.
Check the fob to determine whether it functions by pressing the button. If it doesn't work, there could be a problem in your vehicle that needs to be fixed or replaced by a professional.
Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases the best choice is to speak with a expert or a dealer. When replacing key fob repair near me , be gentle and follow your owner's manual. You may be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or big-box retailer however, you'll need to check the owner's manual to ensure that it matches your car.
Replace the internal key
To guard against theft, many key fobs have an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. If the battery of the fob fails it leaves an internal key blank that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases, start certain cars). Most people don't realize they can save a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The flat watch-style battery is used in the majority of modern fobs. These batteries are easily found at auto parts stores and hardware stores. It is important to use the correct type of battery. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry, which can cause the fob to fail much earlier.
If you try replacing the battery and discover that the issue is still there, it could be a sign that something else is happening with your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if you have a reset procedure that will restore the fob's factory-setup. If this fails, you'll need to visit a dealership or independent shop that specializes vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.
Fobs could also fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are usually found close to the steering wheel or on the dashboard. They transmit signals that allow you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. You may have to move closer to your car to get it to work.
It could be necessary for a professional to remove the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually do the trick, but certain fobs require a special tool or special equipment which can only be found at a dealer. It's a good idea to have a qualified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't damage the fob or injure yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. These batteries are easily found in home improvement and pharmacy stores and are affordable. This is a great option to begin before purchasing a new key fob.
You may also be able to re-program the fob yourself by following a few basic steps. The process is different for different vehicles makes, so it's important to consult your owner's manual as well as research the specifics of your model. For example the key fob might require that the ignition be switched on while reprogramming the key. Another might need the key to be removed and inserted multiple times.
The procedure is easy. First, make sure the new battery is firmly in place. Then, get in the driver's seat and shut all doors, excluding the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob can communicate with the vehicle properly. Then, put the old key back in the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Then, press the lock button on the fob while aiming it at the transmission receiver, which is usually situated on the front of the car above the mirror. The key will signal to the vehicle within a short amount of time that it's being programmed. This can be accomplished by cycling the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This process can be tricky and it's crucial to pay attention to the timing and to not over-press the key button.
If the key fob does not function after reprogramming, you can try using a new battery. If the issue persists, you might want to visit your car dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and programming equipment to reprogram your car's fob or make the key if required.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs that range between $200 and $250, based on the vehicle. However, he's had to turn away customers with European models due to the fact that there's no equipment required. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always inquire with your local car dealer to find out the cost.
How do I get a new fob
If your key fob is beyond repair, you might need to purchase an entirely new one. Depending on key fob repair and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but they will also have all the required tools and software needed to program your vehicle correctly. For a more affordable solution, many independent locksmiths can offer you an entirely new car key fob at a lower price.
It's a good idea to try to reset the fob you have before you decide to buy an entirely new one. Your owner's manual should outline the correct procedure for reset, which is usually just a series of button pushes which restores the factory settings.
It's an excellent idea to check your owner's manual as well as warranty information before deciding where to go for a key fob replacement. If your car is under warranty or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership with bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be eligible to receive a reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.
Finding the best where to purchase a fob can be a challenge. You might want to visit the dealer to get this service if you are driving a brand new car and are looking to feel secure knowing that your keyfobs are working correctly. However, if you're looking for an affordable alternative, it is often possible to find a locksmith independent who can provide the same service for a lower cost.
A professional locksmith is a great option for those who aren't comfortable with this kind of work. They are trained and equipped to replace or reprogram all kinds of car key fobs, and often they can accomplish the task in a short time. Locksmiths is also able to visit your house or office which is convenient for many people. They can even cut and program keys on the spot if you have lost keys, which is ideal for those who don't like to leave their cars in the dark.