The 10 Most Scariest Things About Car Key Fob Repair
Wiki Article
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do much more than unlock and start vehicles. However, that added complexity can add up to high repair bills 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 will allow your fob to function again.
Battery Replacement
The most frequent reason why the key fob ceases to function is because of an inoperative battery. It's a simple repair, and is worth trying before you decide to spend money on a new key fob. Take your car to an hardware or auto parts retailer that stocks button cells and choose an alternative. You can also check the owner's manual (or in the event that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos of people who explain how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery in your particular type of fob.
You'll need to gently pull off the sides of many fobs in order to access the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or some other tool with a thin, flat blade. It might help to look for a groove along the lower edge of the fob that you can wedge your tool between. You may also want to look for small pieces that may fall off while working.
When you have your new battery, place it the same way that you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should face the buttons and the negative (-) the marks on the battery compartment.
Press a button to test the fob. If it isn't working, there may be a problem with your vehicle that requires to be repaired or replaced by a specialist.
Certain key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts could be fragile and easily corrosion-prone. In these cases the best choice is to consult a car specialist or dealer. When replacing a battery, be patient and follow your owner's instructions. You may be able find the same battery at a big-box store or discounter, but be sure to check your owner's guide to ensure it's compatible with your vehicle.
Replacing 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 dies it leaves an internal key that is blank that can 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's batteries. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries which are easy to find at hardware stores and auto parts shops. Choosing the right type of battery is crucial however. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry and cause the fob to fail earlier.
If you try replacing the battery, and the problem persists, it could be a sign something else is going on in your vehicle. If you have an owner's guide look for you can use a reset procedure to restore the fob's factory programming. If this doesn't work, you'll have visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.
Fobs can also malfunction because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are usually found close to the steering wheel or on the dashboard. They transmit signals that enable you to unlock your car and start it with the fob. You may need to get closer to your car to make it work.
It might be necessary for a professional to remove the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually accomplish the task however some fobs come with complicated release mechanisms that require a specific tool or equipment that is available only through a dealer. It's a good idea to have a certified mechanic do this job so that you don't damage the fob or cause injury to yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Often a non-functional key fob simply needs a fresh battery. Because they are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's a good first step before buying a new car key fob.
You may also be able to program the fob by following the steps. This process varies between vehicle manufacturers, so it is important to refer to the owner's manual and study the specifics of your model. For instance one key fob could require the ignition to be turned on while reprogramming it. One key fob could require the key to be inserted several times.
The process is straightforward. First, make sure that the new battery is securely in place. Then, get into the driver's seat and close all doors, excluding the driver's side door. This will ensure the new key is communicating with the vehicle properly. Place the old key in the ignition, then turn it ON, but do not start the engine. Next, press the lock button on the fob, while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is typically located in the front of the car above the mirror. Within a short time frame the key will announce to the vehicle that it's been programmed by cycling the doors' locks or emitting a chime. This procedure can be difficult so it's essential to be attentive to the timing and don't over-press the key button.
If the key fob won't function after reprogramming, you can try using a new battery. If the issue persists, you might want to visit your local dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment to reprogram your car fob or design a new one, if required.
Genesky claims he is able to program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, based on the vehicle. He's been denied European models rejected due to the fact that he lacks the expensive equipment needed. Fortunately, most aftermarket fobs are programmable however it's recommended to consult the dealer of your choice first to see what the cost is.
A New Fob
If your key fob cannot be repaired, you may need to buy another one. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive choice for a replacement fob but it also has the tools and software required to program your car correctly. If you are looking for a less expensive solution, a variety of locksmiths can offer you new car keys at a lower price.
It is a good thing to try to reset the fob you have before you make the decision to purchase an entirely new one. The owner's manual should explain the proper procedure for key repair car reset which is typically the pushing of a button that reset the original programming.
You should also check your owner's guide and warranty information to see whether you can obtain a replacement fob for your key. If your car's warranty still in effect or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could be eligible for a reimbursement on the cost of a replacement fob.
Finding the best where to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. If you have a relatively new car and would like the assurance with knowing that your key fobs are in good condition, you might be better off visiting the dealership for this service. If you're looking for an affordable alternative, it is often possible to find a locksmith independent who can offer the same services for a significantly lower price.
If you're not confident handling this kind of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a great option. They're trained and equipped to replace or reprogram car key fobs of all kinds and do it quickly. A locksmith can also visit your house or office which is a great option for a lot of people. They can also cut and program keys on the spot if you've lost keys. This is ideal for those who don't want to leave their car without a key.