The 10 Most Scariest Things About Car Key Fob Repair
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do a lot more than simply unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can cause costly repair costs in the event that it malfunctions.
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 allow your fob to function again.
Battery Replacement
The most common reason the key fob ceases to function is because of the battery being dead. This is easy to repair, and is worth a try before you decide to spend money on a new fob. Simply drive your car to an auto parts store or a hardware retailer that sells button cell batteries and purchase a replacement. You can also consult the owner's manual (or, if 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 in the specific type of fob you have.
You'll need to gently pull off the sides of many fobs to access the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or another tool that has a flat, thin blade. It might help to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob which you can use to put your tool in between. You might also want to watch for tiny pieces that may come loose while working.
Once you have your new battery, you can insert it the same way that you removed the previous one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards towards the buttons and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned with the markings in the battery compartment of your fob.
Test the fob to see if it works by pushing a button. If it doesn't, you might have a problem with your car that requires a specialist to fix or replace.
Some key fobs require special tools to open and close them, and the contacts inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these situations, a car specialist or dealer may be your best option. When replacing a battery, be patient and follow your owner's manual. You might be able locate a comparable battery at a discounter or big-box retailer however, you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to be sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.
Replacing the Internal Key
The majority of key fobs have a physical mechanical key however, it's hidden within the fob to keep it from being stolen. When the fob battery dies it leaves behind a blank internal key that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases, start certain vehicles). A majority of people do not realize that they can avoid a trip to the dealership by replacing the fob batteries. Most modern fobs have flat watches-style batteries that can be found in hardware stores and auto parts shops. It is essential to choose the right type of battery. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry and cause the battery to fail sooner.
If the problem continues to persist even after you have replaced the battery, it could be an indication that something else is wrong in your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to see if there's a reset procedure that will restore the fob to factory programming. If this doesn't work then you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in vehicle security systems and fob programming.
Fobs can also fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel, or on the dashboard. They transmit signals to allow you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. You may need to get closer to the car to enable it.
A professional may need to open the fob's case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to work, however some fobs require a specialized tool or a special piece of equipment that can only be purchased at a dealer. This job should be done by a certified mechanic in order to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Often a non-functional key fob just requires a new battery. They are easily available in home improvement and pharmacy stores and are affordable. This is a good way to start before buying the new key fob.
Alternately, you might be able to re-program the fob yourself by following some basic steps. The process is different for different vehicles manufacturers, so it is important to consult your owner's manual and research the specifics of the model you own. One key fob could require that the ignition be on when changing the program. A key fob might require the key to be inserted multiple times.
The process is straightforward. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Then, get into the driver's seat and shut all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle in a proper manner. After that, put the old key back into the ignition and switch it to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob towards the receiver for transmission. This is usually located on the left side, just above the mirror. The key will signal to the vehicle within a short period of time that it is being programmed. This can be accomplished by cycling the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This procedure can be difficult so it's essential to be attentive to the timing and not to over-press the key button.
If the key fob does not work after reprogramming, try using new batteries. If the problem persists you may want to visit your local dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car fob or design a new one, if required.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs between $200 and $250, based on the vehicle. But he's had to refuse customers with European models because they don't have the costly equipment they require. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but always consult your local car dealer to find out the cost.
Getting a New Fob
If your key fob is simply damaged beyond repair, you could require an alternative. Depending on the make and model, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob but it will also have the tools and software necessary to program your car correctly. If you're looking for a cheaper solution, a variety of locksmiths will be able to provide you with a brand-new car key fob for a more affordable cost.
It's a good idea to attempt to reset your current device before you make the decision to purchase an entirely new one. key fob repair should provide the correct method of reset. It is typically a series button presses that restores the factory programming.
It is recommended to review the owner's manual and warranty information prior to deciding the best place to get the replacement of your key fob. If your vehicle's warranty is still in effect or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper, you may qualify for a reimbursement on the cost of a replacement fob.
Getting a fob is easy enough, but finding the right place to have it done can be tricky. You might want to go to the dealer to get this service if you have a newer car and you want to be confident that your key fobs work correctly. If you are looking for a more affordable alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith who can provide the same service at less cost.
If you're not comfortable doing this type of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a great option. They're trained and equipped to replace or reprogram key fobs for cars of all types, and can do so quickly. Locksmiths can also come to your office or home, which is convenient for many people. 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 cars unattended.