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Key Fob Replacement and Repair

Modern car key fobs are used a great deal and are frequently abused. Many times just a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to restore them to working good working order.


Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries. This can be found in hardware and auto parts stores. However, before calling an expert, try a few DIY solutions!

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery in the key fob's remote powers the remote you have in your car, and in push-to-start cars, it can start your engine. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a healthy, working battery. When you're out and about, a dead key fob could be a major issue. A simple, low-cost replacement can fix the issue quickly.

The most common sign that a key fob battery is dying is the loss of signal strength and range. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require extra effort.

A new key fob can be found in the auto part section of a large retailer or on the internet. They are typically CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. Check out the owner's manual before you purchase the correct battery. Certain cars require a specific size or type of battery that's not always in stock at big-box retailers Be sure to know the specifications prior to you buy.

Typically the battery is situated on the back of your key fob. It can be removed by prying the case open using an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade. It is likely to look like a small coin and be labelled with the battery's size. Be sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus signs in order to insert the battery correctly. After the replacement battery has been installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob in place and test each button to make sure they function.

It's worth noting that when your key fob is unable to not function even after battery replacement, it could have been deprogrammed. In this case it is likely that a locksmith will be needed to help you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery in the key fob.

YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery has failed. Make sure to look over the range of services we offer in your area and schedule an appointment today!

Weak Signals

If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to buttons on the remote, this could be an indication of a problem with the signaling. Radio signals are used to communicate between your car and the key fob. Poor or inconsistent radio signals can result in low performance and limited range.

Checking the battery level of your fob is a good idea since it can significantly affect the sensitivity of the signal. It is also recommended to reset the settings on your fob and help bring back an even and consistent response from the car. The procedure will differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to your manufacturer's support number is your best resource.

Other factors, like interference from other devices operating at the same frequency can also contribute to weak signals. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.

The physical damage to your keyfob can also affect the transmission of RF signal, resulting in lower performance and less range. A blown fuses, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case of the fob can affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not to respond.

You can fix the problem by resetting your fob's settings or by replacing the battery. If your fob is old and damaged, it's time to replace it altogether.

Also, don't forget if you have an extra key fob which is included with your vehicle, it could be used instead of the primary remote in the event that it starts to fail. Try this method first to determine if you can solve the issue prior to buying a new remote. In this instance, it might be the right time to contact a professional auto-locksmith. They'll be able to determine the cause and suggest the best solution.

Physical Damage

Key fobs can have problems occasionally. Most of these issues are not complex or difficult to fix and can be solved with just a few steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or even another fob available in case one of your keys ever fails to work.

The most frequent cause for car keys not working is a dead battery. These small devices depend on tiny lithium-ion button or coin batteries to function. They are easy to replace and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and places which sell electronic items. You can open the case of the fob using a flat-headed screwdriver and gently pull out the battery you have. Replace the battery, ensuring that it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs require batteries with CR2032 capacity. However, yours might need a different type.

Your fob might also stop responding to the buttons if it loses its connection to the vehicle. This could be due to a variety of factors, including changing the batteries, however it is generally simple for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.

Try this trick to solve your fob issue if none of the above methods work: disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for about 10 minutes, then reconnect them in the reverse order. This can force a restart within the system, and in some cases this will fix the issue without having to do any of the other steps.

Keep the fob away from water or other sources of damage while you are experimenting. A fob is durable however, you must take care with it to make it last for as long as you can.

If none of the troubleshooting steps above help you, you may have to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped, trodden on or subjected to other environmental hazards, it could be damaged beyond repair and may require a replacement. If this is the case, you should be sure to look around for a deal before making your final choice.

Lost Fob

Even with the best care, car key fobs will occasionally stop working. If yours is lost, it could be a huge expense to replace it--especially in the event that you don't have spare. "You could end up paying between $50 and $100 for a replacement and having it programmed by the dealer, plus mechanical backups that could cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is among the most frequent reasons for a keyfob to cease to function. If you know how to replace the battery, or if your owner's guide has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If that doesn't solve the problem, it's time to contact an expert.

A locksmith can help replace or find the lost key fob. They will also likely have an idea of the reason why your fob was not working in the first place. And if your vehicle is a model older than the one you own and has no smart technology built-in You can save cash by locating the key number plate that is on your existing mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain) and recording it in a safe place--such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a new key fob for your car if you ever require it.

If your key fob is an older smart key, it'll have to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or a car dealer. This can cost more than just replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that locksmiths must use a special software program which is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.

In most instances, the entire service will be charged at the same time. This includes any costs for reprogramming a keyfob. Depending on the vehicle, that can run from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a dealership for cars.

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