The 10 Scariest Things About Car Key Fob Repair
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do much more than unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can add up to high repair car key fob bills when one of them fails.
It's a good idea to know that most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries that can be replaced at home. You may even find that a reset will get yours working again.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for the fob's key not working. This is a simple repair, and is worth a try before you decide to spend money on a new key fob. Take your car to a local auto parts store or hardware retailer that carries button cell batteries and pick up an alternative. You can also check your owner's manual (or in the case that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos of people who explain how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery on the specific type of fob you have.
Most fobs have two halves that snap togetheryou'll have to gently pull the sides apart to access the battery. You'll typically 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 keep an eye out for tiny pieces that could break loose while working.
Once you have the new battery, you can insert it the same way that you removed the old one. Make sure that 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 if it works by pushing a button. If it doesn't work, you may have a problem with your car that requires a professional to repair or replace.
Certain key fobs can be difficult to open, and the contacts may be brittle and easily corroded. In these cases an expert in the field or dealer may be the best choice. If you're looking to replace a battery, try to be very gentle and follow the instructions specifically in the owner's manual. You might be able to find an identical battery in a big-box store or discounter, but make sure you read the owner's manual to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.
Replacing the Internal Key
To protect against theft, the majority of broken key repair fobs are equipped with a mechanical key hidden inside. When the battery in the fob fails, a blank key is left behind, which can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In certain cases, this key can even start certain vehicles. Most people don't realize that they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob's batteries. The flat watch-style battery is used in most modern fobs. They can be found in hardware stores and auto parts stores. It is crucial to choose the right type of battery. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry and lead to the fob's failure earlier.
If you replace the battery and discover that the issue persists, it could be an indication that something else is going on with your vehicle. Check your owner's manual to determine if you have an option to reset the fob and restore the fob's factory-setup. If that doesn't help then you'll need to go to a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in vehicle security systems and fob programming.
Fobs can also fail because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are typically located close to the steering wheel, or on the dashboard. They transmit signals that allow you to unlock your car and start it with the fob. If you notice that you're being required to get closer and closer to your vehicle to get it to work, there's a high possibility that the transmitter is not working.
A professional may need to open the fob's case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually work, however certain fobs require a specific tool or a special piece of equipment that can only be purchased at a dealer. It is a good idea to have a certified mechanic perform this task so you don't accidentally break the fob or cause injury to yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that is not functioning simply needs a fresh battery. These batteries are readily available in both pharmacy and home improvement stores and are affordable. This is a great option to begin before purchasing an entirely new key fob.
Alternatively, you may be able to program the fob yourself by following the steps. This procedure can differ between automobiles, so refer to the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. A key fob may require that the ignition switch be turned on while reprogramming. Another may require the key to be removed and inserted repeatedly.
The general procedure is very simple. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Then, get into the driver's seat, and close all doors, excluding the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob communicates with the vehicle correctly. After that, put the old key back into the ignition and switch it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Press the lock and key repair near me button while aiming the fob at the receiver of the transmission. This is typically located on the left side, just above the mirror. In a short period of time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's programmed by cycling the doors locks or emitting the sound of a chime. This procedure can be difficult, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and to not over-press the key button.
If the key fob doesn't work, try reprogramming it again with fresh batteries. If the issue is still there, you might want to check with your local dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and programming equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob, or create a new key if it's needed.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, based on the model of vehicle. Genesky has been denied European models turned away because they don't have the equipment needed. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always inquire with your local car dealer to determine the cost.
Finding a New Fob
If your key fob is beyond repair, you may need to purchase a new one. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob however, they'll have all the required tools and software to program your car correctly. For a more affordable solution, many independent locksmiths can provide you with an entirely new car key repair near me fob for a much more reasonable cost.
Before you decide to purchase a new fob, it is a good idea to try resetting your current one. The owner's manual will outline the proper reset procedure, which is usually just the pushing of a button that reset it to factory programming.
It is recommended to check your owner's manual and warranty information before deciding the best place to get the replacement of your key fob. If your car key repair near me's warranty in good standing or you have an auto club or car key fob repair (visit the next website) insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could qualify for a reimbursement on the cost of replacing the fob.
Finding the right location to purchase a fob can be difficult. If you own a new car and would like the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your key fobs are in good working condition, you might prefer going to the dealership to get this service. If you're seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that can provide the same service at less cost.
A locksmith who is professional is a good option for those who aren't comfortable with this type of work. They are skilled and equipped to reprogram or replace all kinds of car key fobs, and often, they can do it quickly. Additionally, locksmiths will often visit your home or office to complete the task, which can be very convenient for some people. They can even cut and program keys on-site if you have lost keys, which is great for those who prefer not to leave their vehicles unattended.