Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today are more than just a way to unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can add up to expensive repair car key remote costs when one of them fails.

The good news is that most fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. It is possible that a simple reset is enough to allow your fob to function again.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most common cause of a key fob not working. It's a simple repair and worth a try before you spend money on the replacement fob. Simply drive your car to a local hardware or auto parts retailer that sells button cell batteries and purchase a replacement. You can also consult your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) where to repair car key remote get specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery in your fob.

You'll need to gently pull apart the sides of most fobs in order 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 notch on the bottom of the key fob. You may also want to keep an eye out for small pieces that may be loosened while working.

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

Press a button to test the fob. If it doesn't work, there could be an issue with your vehicle that requires a specialist to fix or replace.

Certain key fobs require special tools to open, and the contacts inside can be fragile and easily corroded. In these instances an expert in the field or the dealer will likely be the 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 comparable battery at a discounter or 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 protect against theft, the majority of key fobs are equipped with a mechanical key hidden inside. When the fob battery dies it leaves an internal key that is blank that can unlock trunks and doors (and in some cases, even start certain vehicles). The majority of people do not realize that they can avoid a trip to the dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The flat watch-style battery is used in the majority of modern fobs. These batteries are easily found in auto parts stores and hardware stores. It is essential to choose the correct kind of battery. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry, which can cause the battery to fail faster.

If you replace the battery, and the problem persists it could be an indication that something else is happening in your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if you have a reset procedure that will restore the fob to factory-setup. If this doesn't work, you'll need to go to a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.

Fobs may also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to enable you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. If you notice that you're being required to get closer and closer to your vehicle to be able to make it work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working.

A professional might need to open the fob's case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually do the trick, but some fobs require a specialized tool or special equipment that can only be purchased at a dealer. It is a good idea to have a qualified mechanic perform this task so you don't break the fob or cause injury to yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that is not working could just require an upgrade in battery. Since these batteries are inexpensive and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is an excellent first step prior to purchasing the purchase of a new car key fob.

Alternatively, you may be able to reprogram the fob by following some basic steps. This process varies between vehicle brands, so it's essential to read the owner's manual and research the specifics of your particular model. One key fob could require that the ignition switch be turned on while changing the program. Another may require the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.

The process is straightforward. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure the new key is communicating 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. Next, press the lock button on the fob while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually situated on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. In a short period of time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's been programmed by cycling the doors' locks or generating a chime. This is a challenging process, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.

If the key fob still does not work, try reprogramming it again with new batteries. If the issue persists, a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or locksmiths should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment required to reprogram the car remote key repair fob or create a new one if necessary.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs at around $200 to $250, based on the vehicle. Genesky has had European models turned away because they don't have the equipment needed. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs are programmable, but it's always recommended to consult the dealer of your choice first to find out what the cost is.

Getting a New Fob

If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you might require an entirely new one. Depending on your vehicle's model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a fob replacement However, they'll have all the required tools and software to program your vehicle correctly. Numerous locksmiths who are independent offer a new car key fob at the lower cost.

Before you decide to purchase an entirely new device it's recommended to consider resetting your current one. The owner's manual should explain the correct procedure for reset, which is usually just a series of button pushes that reset it to factory programming.

You should also look over the owner's manual and warranty information to determine if you can get an additional fob for your key. If your vehicle is under warranty, or you have a car key repairs insurance policy or auto club membership with bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be eligible to receive a reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.

Finding the right place to get the fob you need can be difficult. If you own a new vehicle and you want the assurance with knowing that your keys fobs are in good working condition, you might be better off visiting the dealership for this service. If you're looking for a more affordable option it is usually possible to find a locksmith independent who can offer the same services at a much lower cost.

If you're not comfortable doing this kind of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a great option. They are trained and equipped to change or reprogram car key fobs of all kinds, and can do so quickly. A locksmith can also come to your house or office which is a great option for many. They can even cut and program keys on-site when you've lost them, which is ideal for those who do not want to leave their vehicles unattended.