10 Untrue Answers To Common Car Key Fob Repair Questions: Do You Know The Right Ones?
10 Untrue Answers To Common Car Key Fob Repair Questions: Do You Know The Right Ones?
Blog Article
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do much more than just unlock and start vehicles. This extra complexity can result in costly repairs when it fails.
The good news is that most fobs have flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You might find that a simple reset can allow your fob to function again.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most common cause of a key fob not working. This is a simple repair, and is worth trying before you decide to spend money on a new fob. You can buy an additional button cell battery at your local auto parts store or hardware retailer if you have one. You can also refer to your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to 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 to reach the battery. You'll need a small flat-bladed screwdriver, or another tool with a small blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob that you can place your tool between. You may also want to be on the lookout for small pieces that may come loose while you work.
Once you have your new battery, insert it the same way that you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should face the buttons and the negative (-) the marks on the compartment for the battery.
Check the fob to determine whether it functions by pressing a button. If it doesn't work, there could be a problem in your vehicle that needs to be repaired or replaced by a specialist.
Certain key fobs are difficult to open and the contacts may be brittle and easily damaged. In these cases the best choice is to talk to a expert or a dealer. When replacing a battery, be patient and follow your owner's guide. You might be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer but you'll have to refer to your owner's manual to make 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 battery in the fob fails, a blank key is left behind that can be used to unlock doors and trunks. In some cases, this key can even start certain vehicles. A majority of people don't realize that they can avoid a trip to the dealership by recharging the fob batteries. The flat watch-style batteries are used in the majority of modern fobs. They can be found at auto parts stores and hardware stores. It is crucial to choose the correct kind of battery. The wrong type can damage the circuitry and lead to the fob's failure much sooner.
If you replace the battery, and the issue is still there, it could be an indication that something else is going on with your car. Check your owner's manual to determine if there's a reset procedure that will bring the fob back to factory programming. If this fails, you'll need to visit a dealership or a shop independent that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.
Fobs can also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically placed on the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car using the fob. If you're being required to get closer and closer to your car to get it to work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working.
It might be necessary for a professional to access the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to suffice, but some fobs require a specialized tool or special equipment which can only be found at a repair car key remote dealer. This is a job that should be done by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that's not working may simply need a new battery. These batteries are readily available in home improvement and pharmacy stores and are cheap. This is a great option to begin before purchasing a new key fob.
You can also reprogram your key fob yourself by following some basic steps. The procedure may differ for different vehicles, so you should read the owner's manual and research the model you have. One key fob could require that the ignition be turned on while reprogramming. Another key might require the key to be removed and inserted repeatedly.
The basic procedure is easy. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob can communicate with the vehicle in a proper manner. Place the old key in the ignition and turn it on, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob towards the receiver for transmission. It is usually located on the left side, just above the mirror. The key will signal to the vehicle within a brief amount of time that it's being programmed. This can be accomplished by turning the door locks or by emitting an audible chime. This process can be tricky, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and to not over-press the key button.
If the key fob isn't working Try reprogramming it with fresh batteries. If the issue persists you should visit the dealer of your vehicle or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment needed 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 model of vehicle. He's experienced European models rejected because they don't have the equipment needed. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but you should always check with your local car dealer to find out the cost.
How to get a new fob
If your key fob cannot be repaired, you might have to purchase a new one. Based on the make and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to assist. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob however, they'll have all the required tools and software to program your vehicle correctly. For a more affordable solution, a variety of locksmiths will be able to provide you with an entirely new car key fob at a lower price.
Before you rush to get a new key fob, it is recommended to consider resetting your current one. The owner's guide should explain the correct reset procedure. It is typically the result of a series of button presses which restores the factory settings.
You should also check your owner's guide and warranty information to determine if you can get an additional key fob. If your vehicle is under warranty or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper insurance, you might be eligible for reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.
Finding the right location to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. If you own a new car and would like the security with knowing that your key fobs are in good working order, you may be better off visiting the dealership to get this service. If you're looking for an option that is more affordable it is usually possible to find a locksmith who is independent who can provide the same service for a lower cost.
A professional locksmith is a good option if you're not comfortable doing this kind of work. They are skilled and equipped to repair or replace the majority of car key fobs and often, they can do it quickly. Additionally, locksmiths can often come to your workplace or home to complete the task which is convenient for some people. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost them, which is ideal for those who prefer not to leave their vehicles unattended.