Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs of today can do more than unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can cause costly repair costs in the event that it malfunctions.

The positive side is that many fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. You may even find that a reset will bring it back to life.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most frequent reason for the fob's key not working. It's a simple fix, and it's worth trying before you go spending money on a new fob. Simply drive your car to an hardware or auto parts retailer that carries button cells and choose a replacement. 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 inside your fob.

Most fobs have two halves that snap together -- you'll need to gently break the sides to get to the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or a different tool equipped with a thin, flat blade. It might help to look for a notch along the bottom of the fob that you can put your tool in between. You might also want to be on the lookout for small pieces that may be loosened while working.

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

You can push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, there could be a problem with your car that requires a specialist to repair or replace.

Certain key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts may be brittle and easily corroded. In these cases, the best option is to talk to a expert or a dealer. When replacing a battery be gentle and follow the owner's guide. You might be able to find the same battery at a big-box retailer or discounter, but make sure to check the owner's manual to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.

Replacing the Internal Key

To guard against theft, many key fobs have a mechanical key hidden inside. When the battery in a fob dies, a blank key is left behind, which can be used to unlock doors and trunks. In some cases it is possible to start certain cars. Most people don't know this however, they can save themselves from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob's battery. The flat watch-style battery is found in the majority of modern fobs. They can be found at hardware stores and auto parts stores. It is important to use the right type of battery. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry, causing the fob to fail much earlier.

If you replace the battery, and the issue is still there, it could be a sign something else is wrong with your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to see if there's a reset procedure that will restore the fob to factory programming. If this doesn't work you'll have to go to a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.

Fobs can also malfunction because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are typically located on the dashboard or near the steering wheel, and they transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car using the fob. You may have to move closer to the Car Key Fob Repair (Google.At) to enable it.

It may be required for a professional to open the case of the fob in order to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to suffice, but certain fobs require a specific tool or special equipment that can only be found at a dealership. This task should be performed by a certified mechanic in order to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. Because they are cheap and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's a good first step before investing in an entirely new car key repairs key fob.

Alternately, you might be able to reprogram the fob yourself by following a few basic steps. This process can vary between automobiles, so refer to the owner's manual and research your specific model. For instance one key fob could require that the ignition key repair near me be switched on while reprogramming the key. Another might need the key to be removed and inserted repeatedly.

The basic procedure is simple. First, make sure the new battery is in place. Then, get in the driver's seat and shut all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure the new fob is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Then, place the old key back in the ignition and switch it to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob towards the receiver of the transmission. This is typically located on the front, above the mirror. The key will inform the vehicle key repairs within a short period of time that it is being programmed. This can be accomplished by turning off the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This is a challenging process, so pay attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.

If the key fob isn't working Try reprogramming it with fresh batteries. If the issue persists, a visit to your car dealer or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment to reprogram your car's fob, or create an entirely new key if required.

Genesky says that he can program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, based on the model of vehicle. Genesky has been denied European models turned away because they don't have the equipment required. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but it's always best to check with a car dealer first to find out what their price is.

How do I get a brand new fob

If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you might require a new one. Depending on the make and model, a dealership or an auto locksmith may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive choice for a replacement fob however, it will also have the tools and software necessary to program your car correctly. Many independent locksmiths provide a new car key fob at the lower cost.

It is a good thing to try to reset your current device before you decide to buy another one. Your owner's manual should outline the proper reset procedure which is typically the pushing of a button that reset the factory settings.

You should also check the owner's manual and warranty information to see whether you are eligible for an additional key fob. If your car's warranty is still in effect or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could be eligible to receive a reimbursement for the cost of replacing the fob.

Finding the right place to get the fob you need can be difficult. If you own a new car and would like the assurance from knowing that your key fobs are in good order, you may prefer going to the dealership for this service. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option it is possible to find an independent locksmith who can provide the same service at a much lower cost.

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 change or reprogram keys for cars of all kinds and do it quickly. A locksmith can also visit your office or home which is convenient for a lot of people. They can also cut and program keys on the spot if you've lost keys. This is great for those who don't want to leave their vehicle unattended.