The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Car Key Fob Repair

Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today can do much more than just unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can result in costly repairs in the event that it malfunctions.

The good news is that most fobs have flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You may even find that a reset can bring it back to life.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason that a key fob doesn't work is because of the battery being dead. It's a simple repair key fob, and is worth trying before you spend money on a new fob. You can purchase an additional button cell battery at your local auto part store or hardware retailer If you own one. You can also consult your owner's manual (or in the event that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people explaining how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery on the specific type of fob you have.

You'll have to gently pull off the sides of many fobs to access the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or another tool 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. You might also want to keep an eye out for small pieces that could break loose while you work.

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

Press a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, you might have a problem with your car that requires a specialist to fix or replace.

Certain key fobs are difficult to open and their contacts could be fragile and easily corrosion-prone. In these instances, a car specialist or the dealer will likely be your best option. If you're in need of replacing a battery, try to be very gentle and adhere to the instructions that are specific to your owner's manual. You may be able to locate a battery similar at a big-box store or discounter, however, make sure you read the owner's manual to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.

Replace the internal key

The majority of key fobs have a physical mechanical key however, it's hidden within the fob to keep it from being stolen. When the battery in the fob dies it leaves an internal key blank that can unlock trunks and doors (and in some cases, start certain vehicles). Most people do not realize that they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The flat watch-style batteries are used in most modern fobs. These batteries are easily located at hardware and auto parts stores. Choosing the right type of battery is important however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry and lead to the fob's failure earlier.

If the problem continues to persist after replacing the battery, it may be a sign that there is something else wrong in your vehicle. If you have an owner's guide and you're not sure, try to determine if there is a reset option available to restore the fob's factory programming. If this isn't working, you'll need visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.

Fobs can also fail due to malfunctioning 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. It is possible that you will need to get closer to the broken car key repair in order to get it to work.

It could be necessary for a professional to access the case of the fob in order to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to work, however certain fobs require a special tool or equipment that can only be purchased at a dealership. It is a good idea to have a certified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't damage the fob or cause injury to yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Often a non-functional key fob just requires a new battery. Because they are cheap and easily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is a good first step before buying an entirely new car key repair near me key fob.

Alternately, you might be able to re-program the fob on your own by following a few basic steps. This process can vary between automobiles, so consult your owner's guide and study the specific model of your vehicle. For instance, one key fob may require that the ignition be turned on while reprogramming it. One key fob could require the key to be inserted multiple times.

The process is straightforward. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob can communicate with the vehicle in a proper manner. Then, put the old key back in the ignition and turn it on to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob at the transmission receiver. This is typically located on the front, above the mirror. Within a short time frame the key will announce to the vehicle that it's being programmed by triggering the doors' locks or generating the sound of a chime. This can be a tricky process, so pay attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.

If the key fob isn't working try reprogramming it with new batteries. If the issue persists, you may want to visit your local dealer or locksmith. A professional will have all the tools and equipment to reprogram the car fob, or even create a brand new one if necessary.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for around $200 to $250, based on the model of vehicle. But he's had to turn away customers with European models because he doesn't have the expensive equipment they require. Fortunately, many aftermarket fobs are programmable however it's recommended to consult the dealer of your choice first to see what their price is.

How do I get a brand new fob

If the key fob you have cannot be repaired, you may have to purchase an entirely new one. Based on the make and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith may be able to assist. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a fob replacement, but they will also have all of the necessary tools and software to program your vehicle correctly. For a more affordable solution, a variety of locksmiths can offer you new car keys for a much more reasonable price.

It is a good thing to try to reset your current fob before you rush out to buy an entirely new one. The owner's manual should explain the correct procedure for reset which is typically the pushing of a button which restores it to factory programming.

You should also check the owner's manual and warranty information to see whether you can obtain an additional key fob. If your car key Fob repair's warranty in good standing or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper, you may qualify for a reimbursement of the cost of replacing the fob.

Finding a fob is simple enough however finding the best location to do it isn't easy. You may want to go to the dealer for this service if have a newer car and are looking to feel secure knowing that your key fobs are functioning properly. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will offer the same service for an affordable cost.

If you're not comfortable doing this type of work on your own A professional locksmith could be a great option. They are trained and equipped to replace or reprogram keys for cars of all kinds and can do it quickly. In addition, a locksmith can often come to your office or home to complete the task, which can be very convenient for some people. They can even cut and program keys on the spot if you have lost keys, which is great for those who do not want to leave their cars in the dark.