Key Fob Replacement and Repair

Key fobs on modern automobiles are very efficient and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. Sometimes, just a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to make them functional again.

Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style battery, which can be found in Auto key fob Repair parts and hardware stores. But before you call a professional, try a few DIY fixes!

Dead Key Fob Batteries

The key fob's battery powers the remote you have in your car and in push-to start cars, it can start your engine. Therefore, it is critical to maintain an active, healthy battery. A dead key fob can be a major problem when you're traveling. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can fix it quickly.

The most frequent indication 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 your key fob are not 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. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Make sure to consult your owner's manual prior to you purchase the correct battery. Certain cars require a specific size or kind of battery that's not always available at big-box stores, so be sure to know the right specs before you buy.

The battery is usually located in the back of the key fob. It can be removed using the flat-bladed screwdriver, by prying the case open. It is likely to look like an ordinary coin and will be marked with the battery's size. Be sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols to ensure that you put the new battery in the correct place. After the battery has been replaced and the fob is closed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together, and test the buttons.

If your key fob does not work after replacing the battery, it may be deprogrammed. In this instance, a locksmith will be required to assist. This is more expensive than replacing the key fob's battery.

Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery is dead. Make sure you check out all of our services available in your region and book an appointment today!

Weak Signals

If your key fob does not respond to the buttons on the remote it could indicate that the signaling isn't working correctly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, and weak or inconsistent signals could cause poor range and performance.

One of the first things to examine is whether the battery of your fob is depleted since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of your signal. It's also worth resetting the settings on your fob and help bring back the same response from the car. The procedure differs from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a phone call to the help line of the manufacturer will likely be your best resource here.

Other factors can cause weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle.

Damage to your keyfob's physical structure can affect the transmission of RF signal, leading to poor performance and range. A blown fuse, broken or cracked button or a bent case on the fob can affect signal transmission and cause the remote not to respond.

You can attempt to resolve the issue by resetting the fob's settings, or by replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn, it may be time to replace it.

Don't forget to utilize the spare remote that came with your car if your primary remote starts to fail. You should test this option first to see if it can solve the issue prior to purchasing an entirely new remote. If not, this might be the right moment to call an expert auto locksmith. They will be able to determine the cause and suggest the best method of action.

Physical Damage

It's not unusual for key fobs to encounter problems from time to time. Fortunately, most of these issues aren't complicated or a major auto key fob repair issue and can be fixed with a few easy steps. It's important to keep spare batteries or another fob available in case one of your keys stops working.

A dead battery is the most common reason why a key fob in a car is not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced and can be found in most pharmacies and stores. You can access the fob's casing using a flat head screwdriver and gently pry out the existing battery. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged, loose or damaged. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours may require a different type.

If your device loses pairing, it may also cease to respond to buttons. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as changing the batteries, but it is typically a simple issue for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to fix.

If none of the methods above work, try this trick: disconnect the batteries from the car and fob for a short period of time and then reconnect them in reverse order. This could trigger a restart within the system and in some cases, this alone will fix the problem without doing any of the other steps.

While you're testing the fob, make sure to keep it out of water and other possible dangers. Fobs can be quite durable, but it's important to treat it with care in order for it to last as long as you can.

If none of the troubleshooting steps above are helpful, you may need to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped and trampled or exposed to extreme environmental conditions, it could not be able to be repaired and will require an upgrade. 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 of care it's a fact in the road that car key fobs may occasionally fail to function. If you lose yours, it can be extremely expensive to replace it--especially in the event that you don't have spare. "You might end up paying $50 or more for an alternative from the dealer and have it programmed, as well as a new mechanical backup, which will cost at least another $100," says Mel Yu, an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is among the most common reasons for a keyfob's cease to function. If you are familiar with how to replace the battery, or if the owner's guide has instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't solve the issue, it's time to contact an expert.

A locksmith will be able to help you find your lost fob or get it replaced. They'll also have a good idea of the reason why your fob was not working in the first place. And if your car is a model older than the one you own and has no built-in smart technology, you can save some cash by locating the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a decorative keychain) and recording it in a safe place--such as in your wallet or on your phone. If you need to reprogram the key fob in your car, the locksmith can perform the task more easily.

If the key fob you have is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it before getting a new one made, which can be more expensive than simply replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by encryption using rolling-codes, which prevents thieves from getting access to the car. This means that the locksmith must have a special programming tool that is available only to car keys repairs manufacturers, which increases the cost.

In most cases, the entire service will be charged at once. This includes all costs for reprogramming a keyfob. Based on the car the cost can range from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a car dealership.