20 Up-And-Comers To Watch In The Car Key Fob Repair Industry

Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do much more than simply unlock and start vehicles. This extra complexity can cause costly repair costs if it breaks.

The good news is that most fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. And you may find that a reset can get yours working again.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most common reason for the fob's key not working. It's a simple fix, and it's worth a try before you spend money on a new fob. Simply take your car to a local auto parts store or hardware retailer that stocks button cell batteries and purchase a replacement. You can also consult your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to find specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery inside your fob.

Most fobs have two halves that snap togetheryou'll have to gently pull the sides apart to access the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or another tool equipped with a thin, flat blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob which you can put your tool in between. It is also advisable to be on the lookout for small pieces that could fall off while working.

Once you have the new battery, place it the same way that you removed the old one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards towards the buttons and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the markings in the battery compartment of your fob.

Check the fob to determine whether it functions by pressing a button. If it doesn't, there could be a problem with your car that requires a professional to fix or replace.

Certain key fobs are difficult to open and the contacts may be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases the best solution is to consult a car expert or a dealer. If you're looking to replace a battery, try to be gentle and follow the instructions specifically in the owner's manual. You may be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer but you'll have to refer to your owner's manual to make sure that it's the right one for your vehicle.

Replacing the Internal Key

Most key fobs contain an actual mechanical remote key repairs however, it's hidden within the fob to keep it from being stolen. When the fob battery dies it leaves an internal key that is blank that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases start certain vehicles). A majority of people don't realize they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob's batteries. The flat watch-style batteries are used in the majority of modern fobs. They can be found in auto parts stores and hardware stores. It is crucial to choose the right type of battery. The wrong kind can damage the electronic circuitry, causing the fob to fail much faster.

If you replace the battery, and the issue persists, it could be a sign that something else is wrong in your vehicle. If you have an owner's manual and you're not sure, try to determine if a reset procedure is available to restore the fob's factory programming. If this isn't working, you'll need go to a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.

Fobs can also malfunction due to faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually built into the dashboard or near the steering wheel, and they send signals that allow you to unlock and start your car using the fob. You may need to get closer to your car to get it to work.

A professional might need to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually get the job done however some fobs come with complicated release mechanisms that require a specialized tool or specialized equipment that is available only at a dealer. This is a job that should be done by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that's not working could just require a new battery. Because these batteries are cheap and easily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is the ideal first step before purchasing an entirely new car key fob.

You may also be able to reprogram the fob yourself by following some basic steps. This process can vary between vehicles, so you should consult your owner's guide and research the model you have. For instance the key fob might require the ignition to be switched on while reprogramming the key. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.

The basic procedure is simple. First, make sure the new battery is in place. Close all doors, except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new fob is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Then, place the old key back into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Then press the lock button on the fob, while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is typically located 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 turning the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This is a challenging process, so pay attention to timing and don't over-press the button.

If the remote key fob repair fob doesn't work after reprogramming, try replacing the batteries. If the problem persists then a visit to your car dealer or locksmiths should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and programming equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or make the key car repair if required.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, depending on the model of vehicle. Genesky has had European models rejected due to the fact that he lacks the expensive equipment required. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but you should always inquire with your local dealer to find out the cost.

Getting a New Fob

If your key fob is beyond repair, you may require a new one. Depending on the make and model, a dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive choice for a replacement fob but it also has the tools and software required to program your car correctly. Numerous locksmiths who are independent provide a new car key fob at an affordable price.

Before you decide to purchase a new key fob it's recommended to consider resetting your current one. Your owner's manual should outline the correct procedure for reset, which is usually just pushing a few buttons which restores the factory settings.

It's an excellent idea to read your owner's manual and warranty information before you decide where to go for a key fob replacement. If your car is still under warranty, or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership that includes bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.

The process of getting a fob can be simple enough however, finding the right location to get it done can be a challenge. If you own a new vehicle and you want the security with knowing that your key fobs are in good working order, you may be better off going to the dealership for this service. However, if you want an option that is more affordable it is possible to find a locksmith who is independent who can provide the same services for a significantly lower price.

If you're not comfortable doing this type of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a great choice. They are certified and equipped to replace or reprogram most types of car key fobs and they can often complete the task quickly. A locksmith can also come to your house or office which is a great option for a lot of people. They can cut and program keys on the spot if you've lost them. This is great for those who don't like to leave their car unattended.