Car Key Fob Repair: What's The Only Thing Nobody Is Talking About
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today are more than just a way to unlock and start cars. This added complexity can cause costly repair costs if it breaks.
The good news is that most fobs have flat-watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. You may find that a simple reset can make your fob work again.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most common cause of a key fob not working. This is easy to repair, and is worth a try before you go spending money on a new fob. Take your car to a local auto parts store or hardware retailer that sells button cells and choose an alternative. My Site can also consult your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to find specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery in your fob.
You'll have to gently pull off the sides of many fobs to reach the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or another tool with a thin, flat blade. You can insert your tool into a notch on the bottom of the key fob. You might also want to look for small pieces that could fall off while working.
Once you have the new battery, you can insert it in the same manner that you removed the previous one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing up toward the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the marks inside the battery compartment of your fob.
Press a button to test the fob. If key car repair doesn't work, there could be a problem in your car that needs to be repaired or replaced by a professional.
Some key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside may be delicate and easily corroded. In these instances, a car specialist or dealer may be the best option. If you're looking to replace a battery, try to be gentle and follow the specific instructions in the owner's manual. You might be able to find the same battery at a big-box retailer or discounter, however, make sure you check the owner's manual to make sure it is compatible with your car.
Replacing the Internal Key
To prevent theft, most key fobs are equipped with an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. If the battery inside a fob dies it will leave a blank key left behind that can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In certain cases it is possible to start certain vehicles. Most people don't realize they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries which are easy to find at auto parts stores and hardware shops. It is essential to choose the right type of battery. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry, which can cause the fob to fail sooner.
If the problem continues to persist after you replace the battery, it may be a sign that something else is wrong in your vehicle. If you have an owner's manual, check to see if you can use a reset procedure to restore the fob's original programming. If this fails, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.
Fobs can also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically located on the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they send signals that allow you to open and start your car with the fob. If you notice that you're required to move closer and closer to your car to be able to make it work, there's a good chance the transmitter is failing.
A professional may need to open the case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to do the trick, but some fobs require a specialized tool or special equipment which can only be found at a dealership. This job must be handled by a certified mechanic in order to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Often a non-functional key fob just requires a new battery. These batteries are readily available in pharmacy and home improvement stores and are cheap. This is a great option to begin before purchasing an entirely new key fob.
You can also change the programming of your key fob on your own if you follow the steps below. This procedure can differ between vehicles, so you should consult your owner's guide and research your specific model. One key fob could require that the ignition be switched on when reprogramming. A key fob might require the key to be inserted multiple times.
The procedure is easy. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Then, get in the driver's seat, and close all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob communicates with the vehicle properly. Put the old key in the ignition and turn it on however, do not start the engine. Then press the lock button on the fob, while looking at the transmission receiver, which is typically situated on the front of the vehicle 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 procedure can be difficult, so it's important to pay attention to the timing and don't over-press the key button.
If the key fob does not function after reprogramming, you can try replacing the batteries. If the issue isn't resolved then a visit to your car dealer or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment required to reprogram the car fob, or even create a brand new one, if required.
Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for around $200-$250, based on the car. However, he's had the need to turn away customers with European models because there's no equipment required. Fortunately, many aftermarket fobs can be programmable, but it's always best to check with an auto dealer first to determine what their price is.
How to get a new fob
If your key fob cannot be repaired, you may need to buy another one. Based on the make and model, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option to replace your fob, but it also has the tools and software needed to program your car correctly. Numerous locksmiths who are independent offer a brand new car key fob for a much lower price.
Before you decide to purchase a new fob it's a good idea to try resetting your current one. The owner's manual should outline the correct method of reset. This is usually an orderly press that reset the factory program.
You should also look over the owner's guide and warranty information to determine if you can get an alternative fob for your key. If your car's warranty still in effect or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper, you may qualify to receive a reimbursement for the cost of replacing the fob.
Finding the best where to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. If you have a relatively new car and would like the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your key fobs are in working condition, you might be better off visiting the dealership to get this service. However, if you want an affordable alternative it is possible to find a locksmith who is independent who can provide the same services at a much lower cost.
If you aren't comfortable handling this kind of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a great option. They are trained and equipped to repair or replace key fobs for cars of all types and do it quickly. In addition, a locksmith will often visit your home or office to complete the task, which can be very useful for certain people. They can cut and program keys on the spot in case you've lost them. This is great for those who do not want to leave their vehicle unattended.