Key Fob Replacement and Repair

The key fobs in modern vehicles are very efficient and are subject to a lot of abuse. In most cases, a simple repair or replacement is all that's needed to get them working again.

Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries. This is readily available in auto parts and hardware stores. However, before calling a professional, try a few DIY solutions!

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery in the key fob's remote powers your car's remote and in push-to start cars it will start your engine. It is therefore important to maintain a working and healthy battery. When you're out and about and your key fob key repair is not working, it can cause a lot of trouble. The good news is that a simple, inexpensive replacement is able to fix the issue quickly.

The most common indication that a key fob's battery is depleting is the loss of signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on the 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. They are typically CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Make sure to consult your owner's manual prior to you decide on the best battery. Certain cars require a specific size or type of battery that isn't always in stock at big-box stores So, make sure you know the specifications prior to you buy.

The battery is usually found at the back of the key fob. It can be removed with the flat-bladed screwdriver, by prying the case open. The battery will look like a small coin and be labeled according to its size. Make sure to note the way the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the new battery is properly placed. 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.

It's important to note that in the event that your key fob continues to not function even after a battery replacement, it may be deprogrammed. In this situation it is likely that a locksmith will be required to assist you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery in the key fob.

If the battery in your fob is dying or you're having other issues with your fob's key, an experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can examine and fix it to get you back on the road. Be sure to check out the range of services we offer in your region and book an appointment today!

Weak Signals

If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to buttons on the remote key fob repair, this can be a sign of a problem with the signaling. Radio signals are used to send messages between your car and key fob. Inconsistent or weak radio signals can cause low performance and limited range.

One of the first things to examine is whether your fob's battery is low, as this can significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. It is also recommended to reset the settings of your fob, which can help to get the same response from the car. The procedure differs from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or call to the help line of the manufacturer is probably the best guide here.

Other factors, such as interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency can also affect weak signals. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.

Finally physical damage to your key fob may hinder the transmission of RF signals, which may result in poor performance and range. A blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob may affect signal transmission and cause the remote not to function properly.

There are a few simple steps you can take to try and resolve the issue of weak fob signals for example, resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn, it may be the right time to replace it.

Lastly, don't forget that if you have an extra key fob that comes with your vehicle, this can be used instead of the primary remote in case it begins to fail. It's a good idea to try this method to determine if it resolves the issue before investing in an entirely new one. In this situation it may be the right time to contact an expert auto-locksmith. They can identify the issue and suggest the best course of actions.

Physical Damage

It's not common for key fobs to experience problems from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these problems are not serious or complex and can be fixed with a few easy steps. It's a good idea to keep spare batteries or a different fob in case your key ever fails to function.

The most common reason for the car key fob not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They are easy to replace and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and shops which sell electronic items. Open the fob's case with a flat-headed screwdriver and gently remove the battery that you have. Replace the battery, ensuring that it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours may need a different type.

Your fob might also stop responding to the buttons when it loses its connection with your car. This could be due to a number of factors, such as changing the batteries, but is generally simple for an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to resolve.

If none of the strategies above work, try this trick: unplug the batteries from the car and fob for a few minutes and then reconnect them in the opposite 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 clear of water or other sources of damage while you are experimenting. The fob is quite robust, but it's crucial to treat it with care in order for it to last as long as it can.

If all of the above troubleshooting suggestions don't help, it might be time to think about replacing your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other extreme environmental conditions, it may be beyond repair and requires an upgrade. Look around for the most competitive price.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care, car key fobs may fail to function. If you lose yours, it could be a huge expense to replace it--especially if you don't have a spare. "You could end up paying $50 or more to purchase a new replacement from a dealer and get it programmed, as well as an additional mechanical backup which will cost at most 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 problem, such as an insufficient battery. If you are aware of how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual contains instructions, you can try it yourself. If this doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to contact an expert.

A locksmith is capable of helping you locate your lost fob, or get it replaced. They'll also probably have a good idea of the reason why your fob stopped working in the first instance. If your car is older and does not come with smart technology however, you can save money by recording the key number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind an ornamental keychain. If you need to reprogram the key fob in your car the locksmith can perform the task more easily.

If your existing key fob is a modern smart key and you want to change it, you'll need to go to a car dealership or locksmith to remove it from the system and have a new one created which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from getting access to your car. This means that locksmiths must be equipped with a specific programing tool which is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.

In most cases, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any charges to reprogram the new key fob. Depending on the vehicle, that can run from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a car dealer.