10 Things We All Love About Car Key Fob Repair

car key fob repairs (helpful site)

Key fobs today do much more than simply unlock and start vehicles. However, the added complexity could cause costly repairs if one of them breaks.

It's good to know that most fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries that can be replaced at home. It is possible that a reset will get yours working again.

Battery Replacement

The most common reason that a key fob doesn't work is due to the battery being dead. It's simple to fix and worth trying before you purchase the replacement fob. Take your car to a local auto parts store or hardware retailer that carries button cell batteries and purchase the replacement. You can also refer to your owner's manual (or, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people who show you how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery in the particular type of fob.

You'll need to gently pry apart the sides of most fobs to access the battery. You'll need a small, flat-bladed screwdriver, or another tool with a thin blade. It might help to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob that you can use to put your tool in between. It is also advisable to keep an eye out for small pieces that could fall off while working.

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

Check the fob to determine whether it functions by pressing a button. If it doesn't work, there may be a problem with your vehicle that requires to be repaired or replaced by a professional.

Some key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts may be brittle and easily corroded. In these instances the best choice is to consult a car specialist or a dealer. When replacing a battery, be patient and follow your owner's guide. You might be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or big-box retailer, but you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to be sure that it's the right one for your vehicle.

Replace the internal key

Most key fobs contain an actual mechanical key however, it's hidden within the fob to prevent thieves. When the battery in a fob dies and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind, which can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In certain cases, this key can even start certain cars. Most people do not 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. These batteries are easily found at auto parts stores and hardware stores. The right kind of battery is essential however. The wrong kind can damage the electronic circuitry, causing the fob to fail earlier.

If the problem continues to persist after replacing the battery, 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 doesn't work you'll have to go to a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized 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 to allow you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. If you're being required to get closer and closer to your car to be able to make it work, there's a great chance the transmitter is failing.

It may be required for a professional to open the case of the fob in order to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to do the trick, but certain fobs require a specific tool or a special piece of equipment which can only be found at a dealer. This task must be handled by a certified mechanic to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Often a non-functional key fob just requires a new battery. Because these batteries are cheap and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is a good first step before buying the purchase of a new car key fob.

You may also be able to reprogram the fob by following some basic steps. This procedure can differ between vehicles, so you should refer to the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. A key fob may require that the ignition be turned on while changing the program. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed several times.

The general process is simple. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Then, get in the driver's seat and close all doors, with the exception of the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new fob is communicating with the vehicle correctly. Insert the old key into the ignition, then turn it ON however, don't start the engine. Next, press the lock button on the fob, while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is usually located on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will signal to the vehicle within a brief amount of time that it is being programmed. This can be accomplished by turning the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This can be a tricky procedure, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button.

If the key fob repair service fob doesn't work after reprogramming, try using a new battery. If the issue persists then a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or a locksmith should be considered. A professional will have all the tools and equipment to reprogram your car fob or create a new one, if required.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs for around $200-$250, based on the car. However, he's had the need to turn away customers with European models because he doesn't have the expensive equipment required. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but always inquire with your local car dealer to find out the cost.

Getting a New Fob

If your key fob can't be fixed, you could need to buy an entirely new one. Depending on your vehicle's model and make, an auto locksmith or a 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 of the necessary tools and software to program your car correctly. For a more affordable solution, many independent locksmiths can provide you with a brand-new car key fob at a lower cost.

Before you rush to get an entirely new device, it is a good idea to try resetting your current device. The owner's guide should explain the correct procedure for reset. This is usually the result of a series of button presses that restores the factory programming.

It is also recommended to check your owner's guide and warranty information to determine whether you can obtain a replacement fob for your key repair. If your car is still under warranty, or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be eligible to receive a reimbursement for the cost of an entirely new fob.

Finding the right place to get the fob you need can be difficult. It is possible to visit the dealer to get this service if you have a newer vehicle and want peace of mind knowing that your key fobs are functioning correctly. If you're seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith who can provide the same service for less cost.

A locksmith who is professional is a good option for those who aren't comfortable with this kind of work. They are trained and equipped to reprogram or replace the majority of car key repairs remote key repairs fobs and often, they can do it quickly. Locksmiths can also come to your office or home which is a great option for a lot of people. They can even cut and program keys on-site when you've lost them, which is ideal for those who prefer not to leave their cars in the dark.