Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs of today do a lot more than unlock and start cars. This extra complexity can result in costly repairs if it breaks.

The positive side is that many fobs are equipped with 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

The most frequent reason why a key fob stops working is because of the battery being dead. It's a simple fix and worth trying before you purchase a replacement fob. You can buy a new button cell battery at your local auto part retailer or hardware store If you own one. You can also refer to the owner's manual (or in the case 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 in your particular type of fob.

Most fobs have two halves that snap together- you'll need to gently pull the sides apart to get to the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or some other tool that has a flat, thin blade. You can insert your tool into a notch on the bottom of the key fob. You may also want to look for small pieces that may be loosened while working.

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

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

Some key fobs require special tools to open, and the contacts inside can be fragile and easily corroded. In these situations, a car specialist or dealer may be the best choice. If you're in need of replacing batteries, you should be gentle and follow the instructions specifically in the owner's manual. You might be able locate a comparable battery at a discounter store or a big-box retailer however, you'll need to check the owner's manual to be sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.

Replace the internal key

To guard against theft, many key fobs are equipped with an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. If the battery inside the fob fails and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind, which can be used to unlock doors and trunks. In some cases the key could even start certain cars. Many people don't realize this however they could save themselves having to go to the dealership by simply replacing the fob battery. Most modern fobs use flat-watch-style batteries which are readily available at auto parts stores and hardware shops. Choosing the right type of battery is important, however. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry and cause the fob to fail much sooner.

If the issue persists after replacing the battery, it may be an indication that something else is wrong with your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to determine if there's a reset procedure that will restore the fob to factory programming. If this fails, you'll need to visit a dealership or independent shop that specializes vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.

Fobs can also fail because of faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually located near the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to allow you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. If you're required to move closer and closer to your vehicle to be able to make it work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working.

It may be required for a professional to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually do the job, but some fobs have complicated release mechanisms that require a specialized tool or specialized equipment available only through a dealer. This job should be done by a certified mechanic in order to avoid damaging the fob and yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that's not working could just require a new battery. Because they are cheap and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is an excellent first step prior to investing in the purchase of a new car key fob.

You can also change the programming of your key fob on your own by following the steps below. This process can vary between vehicles, so you should refer to the owner's manual and research your specific model. For instance one key fob could require the ignition to be switched on while reprogramming the key. Another may require the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.

The basic procedure is easy. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Then, get in the driver's seat and shut all doors, with the exception of the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new fob is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Then, put the old key back in the ignition and turn it on to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Then, press the lock key repair near me button on the fob while aiming it at the transmission receiver, which is usually located on the front of the car above the mirror. Within a short time frame the key will signal to the vehicle that it's programmed by cycling the doors' locks or generating a chime. This can be a difficult process, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and not to over-press the key button.

If the key fob does not work try reprogramming it using new batteries. If the problem persists you might want to check with your local dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment required to reprogram your car fob, or even create a brand new one if necessary.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs between $200 and $250, based on the model of vehicle. Genesky has been denied European models rejected because there isn't the equipment required. Fortunately, many aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but it's always best to talk to an auto dealer first to see what the cost is.

A New Fob

If your key fob can't be repaired, you might need to buy another one. Depending on the brand and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith may be able to assist. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive choice for a replacement fob, but it will also have the tools and software needed to program your car properly. If you're looking for a cheaper solution, many independent locksmiths can provide you with a brand-new car key repair cost key fob for a more affordable price.

It is a good thing to try to reset your current device before you make the decision to purchase a new one. The owner's manual should outline the correct method of reset. This is usually a series button presses which restores the factory settings.

It is recommended to check your owner's manual and warranty information prior to deciding the best place to get an replacement fob for your broken key repair. If your vehicle's warranty is still active or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could be eligible for a reimbursement on the cost of replacing the fob.

Finding the best location to purchase a fob can be difficult. You may want to go to the dealer for this service if have a newer car and you want peace of mind knowing that your key fobs work properly. If you're looking for an option that is more affordable it is usually possible to find an independent locksmith who can provide the same service for a significantly lower price.

A locksmith professional is a great option if you're not comfortable doing this type of work. They are skilled and equipped to repair keys near me or replace the majority of car key fobs and often they can accomplish the task in a short time. Locksmiths can also visit your house or office which is a great option for a lot of people. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost keys, which is great for those who don't like to leave their cars unattended.