The Next Big New Fob Key Repair Industry
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Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs found in modern cars do a lot of work and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. In many cases just a simple replacement or repair is all it takes to bring them back into good working in good condition.
Most fobs use flat-watch-style batteries that can be found in hardware stores and auto parts stores. However, before calling an expert, you can try a few DIY solutions!
Dead Key Fob Battery
The key fob battery powers the remote feature in your car. It also, in conjunction with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. It is therefore important to maintain a functional and healthy battery. When you're out and about and your key fob is not working, it can cause a lot of trouble. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can be made to fix it in a short time.
The most obvious indication that a key fob battery is dying is the decrease in 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 big retailer or online. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are available in packs of two or more. Make sure to consult your owner's manual prior to you shop for the right battery. Certain vehicles require a particular size or type that isn't always available at big-box stores. Make sure to verify before you buy.
Typically, the battery is located in the back of your key fob and is removed by tearing the case open with the flat-blade screwdriver. The battery will look like an ordinary coin, and it will be labeled according to its size. Be sure to note which way the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the battery you are replacing is positioned correctly. After the battery has been replaced and the fob is closed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together and test the buttons.
If your key fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could have been deprogrammed. In this instance you'll have to contact locksmiths for assistance and it will cost you a bit more than replacing the key fob battery.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob if it's damaged or the battery is dead. Be sure to check out the range of services we offer in your region and book an appointment now!
Weak Signals
If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to the buttons on the remote, this could be a sign of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob are dependent on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals can result in poor range and performance.
One of the first things you should determine is if your fob's battery is insufficient, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings of the fob can aid in restoring a more regular response. The process varies from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or a phone call to the helpline of the manufacturer will likely be your best source of information here.
Other factors, like interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency, can also affect weak signals. Other key fobs as well as wireless communication devices can interfere with the radio frequency (radio-frequency) signals your key fob sends to connect to the receiver of your vehicle.
Additionally, physical damage to your key fob could hinder the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in range and performance. A blown fuse, broken or cracked button or bent fob case could affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not respond.
There are some simple steps you can take to try and solve the issue of weak fob signals like resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. However, if your fob is worn out, it's probably time to replace it altogether.
Also, don't forget if you have an extra key fob that is part of your vehicle, it could be used as a replacement for the primary remote in the event that it begins to fail. It's a good idea to try this method to determine if it resolves the issue before you invest in an entirely new one. In this case, it might be the right time to contact an auto-locksmith professional. They will be able diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems at times. Fortunately, most of these issues aren't complicated or a major issue and can be resolved by following a few simple steps. It's also a good idea to keep spare batteries or a different fob on hand in case your key ever ceases to work.
The most frequent reason for the car key fob not working is the battery is dead. These little devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. These are easily replaced and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and shops which sell electronic items. You can open the case of the fob using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently pull out your existing battery. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged or loose. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours may need a different type.
The fob may also stop responding to buttons when it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This can happen due to a number of factors, including changing the batteries, but is generally simple for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.
If none of the methods above work, try this trick: unplug the batteries from the car and the fob for a few minutes and then connect them in the opposite order. This can force a restart within the system, and in some cases it will solve the issue without requiring any of the other steps.
When you're playing around with the fob, make sure to keep it out of water and other damage sources. The fob is quite robust, but it's crucial to treat it with care in order for it to last as long as possible.
If none of the troubleshooting steps above help you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other environmental hazards, it could be damaged beyond repair and in need of a replacement. Look around for the best deal.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs can occasionally stop working. It's costly to replace yours in the event that you lose it particularly when you don't have an alternative. "You might end up paying between $50 and $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by a dealer, plus mechanical backups that could cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most frequent reasons for a key fob's to not function is a simple problem, such as an insufficient battery. Try changing the battery on your own when you know how, or get instructions from your owner's manual. If that doesn't work, you'll need to contact an expert.
A locksmith is capable of helping you locate your lost fob, or get it replaced. They'll also probably have car key repair shops near me an idea of the reason why your fob stopped functioning in the first place. If your vehicle is a model older than the one you own and has no smart technology built-in You can save cash by locating the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain) and recording it in a secure place, such as your wallet or on your phone. This can make it easier for the locksmith to reprogram a new key fob to your car if you ever need to do it.
If your current key fob is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit an auto dealer or locksmith to deprogram it and get a new one created which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by encryption using rolling-codes, which prevents thieves from getting access to the car. This means that the locksmith has to have a special programming tool that is only available to car manufacturers, which can increase the cost.
In most instances, the entire service will be billed at once. This includes all costs for reprogramming a keyfob. This can range from $20 in some stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, based on the car.