Some Of The Most Common Mistakes People Make With Car Key Fob Repair
car key fob repair fobs today do much more than just unlock and start vehicles. However, the added complexity could result in high repair bills when one of them fails.
It's a good idea to know that most fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries which can be replaced at home. And you may find that a reset will bring it back to life.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most common cause of the fob's key not working. It's easy to repair and worth a try before you invest in an alternative fob. Take your car to a local hardware or auto parts retailer that sells button cell batteries and pick up the replacement. You can also refer to your 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 on the particular type of fob.
You'll need to gently pull off the sides of many fobs to reach the battery. You'll need a small flat-bladed screwdriver, or another tool with a thin blade. It's a good idea to look for a notch along the bottom of the fob that you can place your tool between. You may also want to be on the lookout for small pieces that could come loose while you work.
Insert the new battery in the same way as you removed the old one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned with the markings inside the battery compartment of your fob.
Check the fob to determine whether it functions by pressing a button. If it isn't working, there may be a problem with your vehicle that needs to be fixed or replaced by a specialist.
Some key fobs are difficult to open and the contacts may be fragile and easily damaged. In these instances the best solution is to speak with a expert or a dealer. If you're looking to replace a battery, try to be very gentle and adhere to the specific instructions in your owner's manual. You might be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer, but you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to be sure that it matches your car.
Replacing the Internal Key
To guard against theft, many key fobs are equipped with an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. When the fob battery dies, it leaves an internal key blank which can open doors and trunks (and in some cases start certain cars). Most people aren't aware of this however they could save themselves a trip to the dealership by simply replacing the fob battery. The flat watch-style battery is used in the majority of modern fobs. These batteries can be located at hardware stores and auto parts stores. It is crucial to choose the correct kind of battery. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry and lead to the fob to fail much earlier.
If you replace the battery and discover that the problem persists, it could be a sign that something else is wrong in your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to see if there's a reset procedure that can bring the fob back to factory programming. If this isn't working, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.
Fobs may also fail due to faulty transmitter receivers. They are typically located near the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to allow you to unlock your car and start it with the fob. If you're having to get closer and closer to your vehicle to get it to work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working.
A professional might have to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually get the job done however, some fobs have complicated release mechanisms that require a specialized tool or equipment that is available only at a dealer. This task should be done by a qualified mechanic to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. Because these batteries are cheap and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's the ideal first step before purchasing a new car key fob.
Alternatively, you may be able to program the fob by following a few basic steps. This process can vary between vehicles, so it is recommended to consult your owner's guide and research your specific model. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be switched on while reprogramming the key. A key fob might require the key to be inserted multiple times.
The basic procedure is simple. Make sure 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 in a proper manner. Then, put the old key back in the ignition and switch it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Next, press the lock button on the fob while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will signal to the vehicle within a brief amount of time that it is being programmed. This can be done by cycling the door locks or by emitting an audible chime. This process can be tricky and it's crucial to be aware of the timing and don't over-press the key button.
If the key fob won't function after reprogramming, you can try using a new battery. If the issue persists, a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or a locksmith should be considered. A professional will have all the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or design a new one if necessary.
Genesky says that he can program newer fobs between $200 and $250, based on the vehicle. He's been denied European models rejected due to the fact that there isn't the equipment required. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmable but it's always recommended to consult an auto dealer first to see what the cost is.
How do I get a new fob
If your key fob is beyond repair, you might need to get an entirely new one. Based on the make and model, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob however, they'll have the necessary tools and software needed to program your car correctly. Many independent locksmiths provide a new car key fob at an affordable price.
Before you purchase an entirely new device it's a good idea to try resetting your current one. The owner's manual will outline the proper reset procedure that is typically pushing a few buttons which restores it to factory programming.
It is also a good idea to read your owner's manual as well as warranty information before deciding the best place to get an replacement fob for your key. If your car's warranty in good standing or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could be eligible for a reimbursement on the cost of a replacement fob.
Finding a fob is simple enough however, finding the right place to have it done can be tricky. You might want to visit the dealer for this service if have a newer car and you want to be confident that your key fobs are functioning properly. If you're seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that can provide the same service for less cost.
A professional locksmith is a good option for those who aren't comfortable with this type of work. They're trained and equipped to repair or replace car key fobs of all kinds and can do it quickly. A locksmith is also able to visit your house or office which is convenient for many. They can also cut and program keys on site if you've lost them. This is ideal for those who do not want to leave their vehicle without a key.