Car Key Fob Repair: What Nobody Is Talking About
Car Key Fob Repair: What Nobody Is Talking About
Blog Article
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today can do much more than unlock and start vehicles. This extra complexity can cause costly repair costs in the event that it malfunctions.
The good news is that most fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. And you may find that a reset will get yours working again.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the main cause of a key fob that isn't working. It's a simple repair and worth a try before you purchase an alternative fob. You can buy a new 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, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos of people who explain how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery in your particular type of fob.
Most fobs come with two halves that snap together- you'll need to gently pry the sides apart to get to the battery. You'll require a small flat-bladed screwdriver, or a different tool with a thin blade. You can put your tool into a slot on the bottom of the key fob. You might also want to keep an eye out for small pieces that may come loose while you work.
When you have your new battery, you can insert it in the same manner that you removed the previous 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.
You can push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, there could be a problem with your car that requires a professional to repair or replace.
Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases an expert in the field or dealer may be the best choice. If you're in need of replacing batteries, you should be gentle and follow the specific instructions in your owner's manual. You may be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or big-box retailer but you'll have to check the owner's manual to be sure that it matches your car.
Replace the internal key
To prevent theft, most key fobs are equipped with a mechanical key hidden inside. If the battery inside the fob fails it will leave a blank key left behind, which can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In certain cases it is possible to start certain vehicles. Many people don't realize this however, they can save themselves from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob battery. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries which are easy to find in auto parts stores and hardware shops. Using the correct type of battery is important however. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry and cause the fob to fail much faster.
If you try replacing the battery and discover that the issue is still there, it could be a sign that something else is happening with your car. If you have an owner's manual and you're not sure, try to determine if you can use a reset procedure to restore the fob's original programming. If this doesn't help you'll have to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.
Fobs may also malfunction due to faulty transmitter receivers. They are usually found close to the steering wheel or on the dashboard. They transmit signals that enable you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. If you notice that you're required to move closer and closer to your car to get it to work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working.
It might be required for a professional to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually get the job done, but some fobs have complex release mechanisms that require a specific tool or car keying repair equipment that is available only at a dealer. This is a job that should be done by a qualified mechanic to avoid damaging the fob and yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that is not working could just require a new battery. Because they are cheap and easily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is a good first step before investing in an entirely new car key fob.
You may also be able to re-program the fob by following some basic steps. This process can vary between vehicles, so you should refer to the owner's manual and research the model you have. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be switched on while reprogramming the key. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.
The general procedure is very simple. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob communicates with the vehicle in a proper manner. Insert the old key into the ignition and turn it on however, do not start the engine. Then, press the lock button on the fob while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually located in the front of the vehicle above the mirror. Within a brief time the key will announce to the vehicle that it's being programmed by cycling the doors' locks or generating an emitted sound. This is a challenging procedure, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.
If the key fob doesn't work, try reprogramming it again with fresh batteries. If the issue persists then a visit to your dealer for your car or locksmiths should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or create a new one if needed.
Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for $200-$250, depending on the car. However, he's had to refuse customers with European models because he doesn't have the expensive equipment required. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always check with your local dealer to determine the price.
A New Fob
If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you might need to purchase an alternative. Based on the make and model, an auto locksmith or dealership might be able to assist. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive alternative for replacing a fob However, they'll have all the required tools and software to programme your vehicle properly. For a more affordable option, a number of independent locksmiths can offer you a brand-new car key fob for a more affordable cost.
It is a good thing to attempt to reset your current fob before you decide to buy an entirely new one. The owner's guide should explain the correct reset procedure. It is typically a series button presses that reset the factory program.
It's also a good idea to read your owner's manual and warranty information prior to deciding which place to go for the replacement of your key fob. If your car is still under warranty or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.
Finding the right where to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. If you own a new car and want the security with knowing that your keys fobs are in good condition, you might prefer going to the dealership for this service. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that can provide the same service for less cost.
If you're not comfortable doing this type of work yourself, a professional locksmith may be a great choice. They are certified and equipped to replace or reprogram all kinds of car key fobs and often, they can accomplish the task in a short time. Additionally, locksmiths can often come to your workplace or home to do the job, which can be very useful for certain people. They can even cut and program keys on-site when you've lost keys, which is ideal for those who don't like to leave their vehicles unattended.