Key Fob Replacement and Repair

The key fobs found in modern vehicles perform a lot of work and are subject to lots of abuse. Sometimes, just a simple repair or replacement is all that's needed to make them work again.

Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries. This can be found in hardware and auto parts stores. Before you call in a professional, you can do a few DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery in the key fob powers the remote function in your car. It also, with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. Therefore, it is essential to keep an active, healthy battery. A dead key fob can be an issue when you're in the middle of nowhere. A simple, affordable replacement will fix the problem quickly.

The most frequent sign that a battery on a key fob is dying is the loss of signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require additional effort.

A new key fob is available in the auto part section of a major retailer or on the internet. Typically, they are CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. Make sure to consult your owner's manual prior to you purchase the correct battery. Certain cars require a certain size or type that isn't always available at big-box stores. Be sure to check before you buy.

The battery is typically located at the back of the key fob. It can be removed with the flat-bladed screwdriver, by removing the case. It will usually resemble an ordinary coin and will be labeled with the battery size. Be sure to note which direction the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the new battery is placed correctly. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together. Then test the buttons.

It's worth noting that if your key fob continues to cease functioning even after battery replacement, it may have been deprogrammed. In this instance you will require a locksmith required to assist. This will cost more than just replacing the battery in the key fob.

YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery has failed. Be sure to check out all of our services available in your area and schedule an appointment today!

Weak Signals

If you find that your key fob isn't responding to 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 the key fob. Weak or inconsistent radio signals can result in poor performance and a limited range.

The battery level of your fob is a good idea because it could significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. It is also recommended to reset the settings on your fob that can help get the same response from the car key repair company. The procedure differs from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or call to the helpline of the manufacturer will likely be your best source of information here.

Other factors, including interference from other devices operating on the same frequency, can also cause weak signals. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle.

Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob may also interfere with the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked buttons or a bent case could interfere with the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.

There are a few simple steps you can follow to try and resolve the issue of weak fob signals such as resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is old and damaged, it's time to replace it altogether.

Also, don't forget if you have a spare key fob that comes with your vehicle, this can be used instead of the primary remote if it starts to fail. You should test this option first to see if it can fix the problem before buying a new remote. If not, this might be the right time to contact a professional auto locksmith. They will be able diagnose the issue and recommend the best way to proceed.

Physical Damage

Key fobs can have problems occasionally. Luckily, the majority of these issues aren't serious or complex and can be resolved with some simple steps. It's also a good idea to have spare batteries or another key fob in the event that one of your keys ever stops working.

The most frequent cause for a car key fob repairs key fob not working is an inactive battery. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. These batteries are easily replaceable and can be purchased at most pharmacies and stores. You can open your fob's casing using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently remove the existing battery. Ensure that it is not damaged or loose, and then insert the new battery. Most fobs require CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require a different kind.

The fob may also stop responding to buttons after losing its pairing with the car. This could be due to many factors like changing the batteries. However an auto Locksmith or local dealership can usually fix it.

If none of the methods above work, try this trick: unplug the batteries from the car and fob for a few minutes and then connect them in reverse order. This could trigger a reboot within the system, and in some cases, this alone will fix the issue without requiring any of the other steps.

Keep the fob away from water or other sources of harm while you're experimenting. The Fob Key Repair is tough, but you should take care with it to make it last for as long as you can.

If all of the above troubleshooting suggestions aren't working, it could be time to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown around or tripped over, or exposed to other harsh environmental conditions it could be damaged beyond repair and in need of an upgrade. If this is the case, make sure to look around for a deal prior to making a final decision.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care it's a fact in the road that car key fobs can occasionally stop working. If you lose yours it could be very expensive to replace it, especially in the event that you don't have spare. "You could end up paying $50 or more to purchase a new replacement from a dealer and get it programmed, plus 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 to stop working is a simple issue, like a weak battery. If you know how to replace the battery, or if your owner's manual has instructions, you can try it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll need to call an expert.

A locksmith can help you to find or replace the lost key fob. A locksmith can probably tell you the reason your fob stopped working in the first place. If your car remote key repair is old and doesn't come with smart technology it is still possible to save money by recording the key number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind a keychain with an ornamental design. If you need to reprogram your car's key fob the locksmith can do it more easily.

If the key fob you have is a smart key of the present, you'll have to visit an auto dealer or locksmith to deprogram it before getting a new one made and this can be more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that locksmiths must have a special software program which is only available to car manufacturers, which increases the cost.

In most instances, the entire process will be charged one time. This includes any costs for reprogramming a keyfob. This could range from around $20 in some stores to over $200 at car dealerships, based on the car.