Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do much more than unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can add up to costly repairs when one of them fails.

The good news is that most fobs have flat-watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. You may find that a simple reset will bring your fob back to life.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason the key fob ceases to function is because of an inoperative battery. It's a simple repair and worth a try before you invest in an alternative fob. Take your car to an auto parts store or a hardware retailer that carries button cells and choose the replacement. You can also consult 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 inside your fob.

Most fobs have two halves that snap together -You'll need to break the sides in order to access the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or a different tool with a thin, flat blade. It's a good idea to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob that you can put your tool in between. You may also want to watch out for small pieces that may come loose while you work.

Insert the new battery the same way as you removed the previous one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the markings inside the battery compartment of your fob.

You can push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, you may have an issue with your car that requires a specialist to repair or replace.

Some key fobs are difficult to open and the contacts may be fragile and easily corrosion-prone. In these instances the best solution is to talk to a expert or dealer. If you're looking to replace batteries, you should be very gentle and adhere to the instructions specifically in your owner's manual. You may be able to find a similar battery at a discounter store or a big-box retailer however, you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to be sure that it matches your car.

Replacing the Internal Key

The majority of key fobs have an actual mechanical key that is hidden within the fob to stop thieves from getting. When the battery in the fob dies it will leave behind a blank internal key which can open doors and trunks (and in some cases, even start certain cars). Most people aren't aware of this however, they can avoid from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob battery. The flat watch-style batteries are used in the majority of modern fobs. These batteries are easily found at hardware and auto parts stores. Choosing the right type of battery is essential, however. A wrong type of battery can harm the electronic circuitry, causing the battery to fail earlier.

If you change the battery and discover that the issue is still there, it could be a sign something else is happening with your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to determine if you have a reset procedure that will bring the fob back to factory-setup. If this doesn't work, you'll have go to a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and key fob programming.

Fobs can also fail due to faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel or on the dashboard. They transmit signals that enable you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. You may need to get closer to the car to make it work.

A professional might need to open the case of the fob 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 found at a dealer. It's best to have a certified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't break the fob or injure yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working just requires a new battery. They are easily available in home improvement and pharmacy stores and are cheap. This is a good option to begin before purchasing the new key fob.

You can also change the programming of your key car repair fob yourself by following the steps below. This process can vary between automobiles, so refer to the owner's manual and research your specific model. For example the key fob might require the ignition to be switched on while reprogramming the key. A key fob might require the key to be inserted several times.

The basic procedure is easy. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Then, sit in the driver's seat, and close all doors, with the exception of the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob communicates with the vehicle correctly. Then, place the old key back into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Then press the lock button on the fob, while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually located on the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will notify the vehicle within a short amount of time that it is being programmed. This can be done by turning the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This can be a difficult process and it's crucial to be aware of the timing and to not over-press the key button.

If the key fob still doesn't work Try reprogramming it with fresh batteries. If the problem persists you may want to visit your local dealer or locksmith. A professional will have all the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or create a new one if necessary.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs for $200-$250, depending on the car. However, he's had the need to refuse customers with European models because he doesn't have the expensive equipment required. The majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always inquire with your local car dealer to determine the cost.

Getting a New Fob

If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you might require an alternative. Depending on the brand and model, a dealership or an auto locksmith may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option to replace your fob, but it will also have the tools and software needed to program your car properly. If you're looking for a cheaper option, a number of independent locksmiths can offer you new car keys at a lower cost.

Before you purchase an entirely new device, it is recommended to consider resetting your current device. The owner's guide should explain the correct method of reset. 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 if you can get an additional fob for your key. If your car is still under warranty, or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership with bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.

Finding the best place to get a fob can be difficult. It is possible to go to the dealer for this service if are driving a brand new car and you want to be confident that your key fobs work properly. If you're looking for a more affordable alternative, it is 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 good option. They are skilled and equipped to replace or reprogram the majority of car key fobs and often, they can accomplish the task in a short time. A locksmith can also come to your house or office, which is convenient for a lot of people. They can even cut and program keys repair on the spot if you have lost keys, which is ideal for those who prefer not to leave their cars in the dark.