Car Key Fob Repairs

Today's key fobs do a lot more than unlock and start cars. This added complexity can cause costly repair costs if it breaks.

The positive side is that many fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. You may find that a simple reset is enough to make your fob work again.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason the key fob ceases to function is because of an inoperative battery. It's easy to fix and worth trying before you invest in a replacement fob. Simply take your car to a local hardware or auto parts retailer that stocks button cells and choose the replacement. You can also refer to your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to get specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery inside your fob.

You'll need to gently pull off the sides of many fobs to access the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or some other tool with a thin, flat blade. You can put your tool into a slot on the bottom of the key fob. It is also advisable to watch for tiny pieces that may come loose as you work.

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

Check the fob to determine whether it is working by pressing a button. If it fails, it could be a problem in your vehicle that requires to be fixed or replaced by a professional.

Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside can be fragile and susceptible to corroding. In these instances the best choice is to speak with a expert or a dealer. When replacing a battery be gentle and follow the owner's guide. You may be able to find a similar battery at a discounter store or a big-box retailer however, you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to be sure that it's the right one for your vehicle.

Replacing 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, a blank key is left behind and can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In some cases it is possible to start certain cars. The majority of people don't realize they can avoid a trip to the dealership by recharging the fob batteries. The flat watch-style battery is used in most modern fobs. These batteries can be found in hardware and auto parts stores. It is important to use the correct type of battery. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry, which can cause the fob to fail much sooner.

If you try replacing 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 determine if you have an option to reset the fob and bring the fob back to factory-setup. 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 can also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically located on the dashboard or near the steering wheel, and transmit signals that allow you to unlock and start your car with the fob. If you notice that you're having to get closer and closer to your car in order to make it work, there's a good possibility that the transmitter is not working.

It might be required for a professional to access the case of the fob in order to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is enough to get the job done, but some fobs have complex release mechanisms that require a specific 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

A key fob that is not functioning simply requires a new battery. These batteries are readily available in pharmacy and home improvement stores and are affordable. This is a good way to start before buying the new key fob.

You can also change the programming of your key fob yourself if you follow the steps below. This process varies between vehicle makes, so it's important to consult your owner's manual and research the specifics of your model. One key fob might require that the ignition be on when reprogramming. Another may require the key to be removed and inserted repeatedly.

The general process is simple. First, ensure that the new 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 properly. After that, 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 button on the fob, while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is usually situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. In a short period of time the key repair shop will signal to the vehicle that it's programmed by triggering the doors' locks or generating an emitted sound. This is a challenging process, so pay attention to the timing and key Fob repairs don't press too hard the button.

If the key fob still doesn't work Try reprogramming it using new batteries. If the issue is still there, you might want to check with your local locksmith or dealer. A professional locksmith will have the tools and programming equipment to reprogram your car's fob or clone the key if needed.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs at around $200 to $250, based on the model of vehicle. However, he's had the need to turn down customers who have European models because they don't have the costly equipment they require. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always check with your local car dealer to find out the cost.

Finding a New Fob

If your key fob is beyond repair, you may need to purchase an entirely new one. Based on the make and model, a dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to assist. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but they will also have the necessary tools and software needed to program your car correctly. If you are looking for a less expensive solution, many independent locksmiths will be able to provide you with new car keys for a much more reasonable cost.

It's a good idea to try to reset your current fob before you make the decision to purchase an entirely new one. Your owner's manual should outline the correct procedure for reset that is typically the pushing of a button that reset it to factory programming.

It is an excellent idea to review the owner's manual and warranty information prior to deciding the best place to get an replacement fob for your key. If your vehicle is under warranty, or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership with bumper-to-bumper insurance, you might be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.

The process of getting a fob can be simple enough however, finding the right location to get it done can be tricky. If you own a new vehicle and you want the assurance with knowing that your key fobs are in good order, you may be better off visiting the dealership for this service. However, if you're looking for an option that is more affordable it is possible to find an independent locksmith who can provide the same service at a much lower cost.

If you're not confident handling this type of work on your own A professional locksmith could be a great choice. They are trained and equipped to repair or replace most types of car key fobs and often they can do it quickly. Additionally, locksmiths can often come to your home or office to do the job, which can be very practical for some. They can even cut and program keys on the spot in case you've lost them, which is ideal for those who prefer not to leave their cars unattended.