Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do a lot more than simply unlock and start vehicles. This extra complexity can lead to expensive repair bills when it fails.
The good news is that the majority of fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You may even find that a reset can bring it back to life.
Battery Replacement
The most common reason the key fob ceases to function is due to a dead battery. This is a simple repair, and is worth a try before you go spending money on a new fob. Take your car to an auto parts store or a hardware retailer that sells button cells and choose an alternative. You can also refer to the owner's manual (or, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos of people who explain how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery in the particular type of fob.
Most fobs have two halves that snap together- you'll need to gently pull the sides apart to access the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or a different tool with a thin, flat blade. key fob repair near me might help to look for a notch on the lower edge of the fob that you can wedge your tool between. It is also advisable to look for small pieces that could come loose while you work.
Once you have the new battery, place it in the same way that you removed the previous one. The positive (+) side should face the buttons and the negative (-) the markings on the compartment for the battery.
You can push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't work, you may have an issue with your car that requires a professional to fix or replace.
Certain key fobs require specific tools to open, and the contacts inside can be fragile and easily corroded. In these instances an expert in the field or the dealer will likely be the best choice. When replacing a battery, be gentle and follow your owner's guide. You may be able find a battery similar at a big-box store or discounter, but make sure you check the owner's manual to ensure it's compatible with your vehicle.
Replace the internal key
To protect against theft, the majority of key fobs come with an electronic key inside. When the battery in the fob fails and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind that can be used to unlock doors and trunks. In some cases the key could even start certain vehicles. A majority of people do not realize that they can avoid a trip to the dealership by replacing the fob's batteries. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find in hardware stores and auto parts shops. Using the correct type of battery is crucial, however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry and cause the fob's failure much sooner.
If the issue persists even after you have replaced the battery, it may be a sign that something else is wrong with your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to determine if you have a reset procedure that can restore the fob to factory-setup. If this fails, you'll need go to a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.
Fobs can also fail because of faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually built into the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car using the fob. You may have to move closer to the car in order to enable it.
It may be necessary for a professional to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is enough to accomplish the task however some fobs come with complicated release mechanisms that require a specialized tool or specialized equipment available only through a dealer. It's a good idea to have a certified mechanic do this job so that you don't break the fob or cause injury to yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. Because they are cheap and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's a good first step before investing in a new car key fob.
Alternately, you might be able to re-program the fob on your own by following a few basic steps. The procedure may differ for different vehicles, so you should refer to the owner's manual and research your specific model. For instance, one key fob may require the ignition to be on while reprogramming it. One key fob could require the key to be inserted several times.
The procedure is simple. First, ensure that the new battery is firmly in place. Then, get into the driver's seat and shut all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new fob is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Then, put the old key back in the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob toward the receiver of the transmission. This is usually located on the front above the mirror. Within a brief time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's been programmed by triggering the doors locks or emitting an emitted sound. This procedure can be difficult, so it's important to pay attention to the timing and to not over-press the key button.
If the key fob doesn't work try reprogramming it with fresh batteries. If the problem persists you might want to visit your local locksmith or dealer. A professional locksmith will have the tools and programming equipment to reprogram your car's fob, or create a new key if it's needed.
Genesky says that he can program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, based on the model of vehicle. However, he's had the need to turn away customers with European models due to the fact that there's no equipment required. The majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always inquire with your local car dealer to find out the price.
A New Fob
If the key fob you have cannot be repaired, you might have to purchase another one. Depending on the brand and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith may be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob However, they'll have all of the necessary tools and software to program your car correctly. Many locksmiths in independent shops offer a brand new car key fob for a much lower price.
It is a good thing to try to reset the fob you have before you decide to buy another one. Your owner's manual should outline the correct procedure for reset which is typically the pushing of a button that reset the factory settings.
You should also look over your owner's guide and warranty information to see if you can get an additional key fob. If your car is still under warranty or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper insurance, you might be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.
Finding the best where to purchase a fob can be a challenge. It is possible to go to the dealer for this service if have a newer vehicle and you want to be confident that your key fobs are functioning properly. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that will offer the same service for less cost.
A locksmith who is professional is a great choice If you're not confident doing this type of work. They are certified and equipped to repair or replace all kinds of car key fobs and often, they can accomplish the task in a short time. Additionally, locksmiths can often come to your home or office to complete the task which is useful for certain people. They can even cut and program keys on the spot in case you've lost them, which is ideal for those who prefer not to leave their cars in the dark.