The 10 Scariest Things About Car Key Fob Repair

car key repair company Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do much more than unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can add up to expensive repair costs if one of them breaks.

It's a good idea to know that the majority of fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries that can be replaced at home. You might find that a simple reset is enough to allow your fob to function again.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason that a key fob doesn't work is because of an inoperative battery. It's simple to repair and worth a try before you invest in an alternative fob. You can buy the new button cell at your local auto part store or hardware retailer if you have one. You can also consult your owner's manual (or, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people explaining how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery in your particular type of fob.

Most fobs come with two halves that snap together -you'll have to gently pry the sides apart in order to access the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or a different tool that has a flat, thin blade. It might help to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob that you can use to place your tool between. You might also want to look out for small pieces that might break loose as you work.

When you have your new battery, insert it in the same manner that you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons, while the opposite side is facing (-) the marks on the battery compartment.

Press a button to test the fob. If it fails, it could be a problem in your vehicle that requires to be repaired or replaced by a professional.

Some key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases the best choice is to talk to a specialist or a dealer. When replacing a battery be patient and follow your owner's guide. You may be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or a big-box retailer but you'll have to consult your owner's manual to make sure that it matches your car.

Replacing the Internal Key

Most key fobs include the physical key mechanical, but it's hidden inside the fob to stop thieves from getting. When the fob battery dies, it leaves an internal key that is blank that can unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases start certain vehicles). The majority of people don't realize they can avoid a trip to a dealership by recharging the fob batteries. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that can be found at auto parts stores and hardware shops. It is important to use the correct type of battery. The wrong kind can damage the electronic circuitry and cause the battery to fail earlier.

If you replace the battery and discover that the problem persists it could be a sign something else is going on with your vehicle. If you have an owner's manual look for you can use a reset procedure to restore the fob's original programming. If this isn't working, you'll need visit a dealership or a shop independent that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.

Fobs could also fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically located near the steering wheel or on the dashboard. They transmit signals to enable you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. It is possible that you will need to get closer to the car in order to get it to work.

A professional may need to open the fob's case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually suffice, but certain fobs require a special tool or equipment that can only be found at a dealership. It's best to have a qualified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't accidentally break the fob or cause injury to yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. These batteries are easily found in pharmacy and home improvement stores and are cheap. This is a great way to start before buying the new key fob.

You can also re-program your key fob by yourself if you follow the steps below. The procedure may differ for different vehicles, so it is recommended to consult your owner's guide and research the model you have. A key fob may require that the ignition switch be on when programming. Another key might require the key fob repair to be inserted and removed repeatedly.

The procedure is easy. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Then, get in the driver's seat and close all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob can communicate with the vehicle properly. Place the old key in the ignition and turn it on however, do not start the engine. Next press the lock button on the fob while aiming it at the transmission receiver, which is typically located in the front of the vehicle above the mirror. Within a short time frame the key will signal to the vehicle that it's programmed by turning off the doors' locks or generating an emitted sound. This can be a tricky process, so pay attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.

If the key fob doesn't work Try reprogramming it using new batteries. If the issue persists, you might want to visit your car dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment necessary to re-program your car's fob or clone a new key if it's required.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs for $200 to $250, based on the car. However, he's had to turn down customers who have European models due to the fact that he doesn't have the expensive equipment required. The majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always consult your local dealer to find out the price.

How do I get a new fob

If your key fob can't be repaired, you might have to purchase a new one. Depending on the brand and model, the dealer or an auto locksmith may be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob However, they'll have all of the necessary tools and software needed to program your vehicle correctly. Numerous locksmiths who are independent provide a new car key fob for the lower cost.

Before you decide to purchase a new fob, it is recommended to consider resetting your current device. The owner's manual should provide the correct reset procedure. It is typically 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. If your car's warranty is in good standing or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could qualify to receive a reimbursement for the cost of replacing the fob.

Finding the right place to get the fob you need can be difficult. It is possible to go to the dealer for this service if you are driving a brand key fob repair new car and want peace of mind knowing that your key fobs are functioning correctly. If you're seeking a less expensive alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that can provide the same service for a lower price.

If you're not confident handling this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith may be a great option. They are equipped and trained to repair or replace car key fobs of all types, and can do so quickly. In addition, a locksmith will often visit your workplace or home to complete the task, which can be very practical for some. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost keys, which is great for those who do not want to leave their vehicles unattended.