The 10 Scariest Things About Car Key Fob Repair

Car Key Fob Repairs

Today's key repair shop fobs do a lot more than unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can add up to costly repairs if one of them breaks.

The good news is that most fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. And you may find that a reset will get yours working again.

Battery Replacement

A dead battery is the most frequent cause of a key fob that isn't working. This is easy to fix, and it's worth a try before you spend money on a new fob. You can pick up an additional button cell battery at your local auto parts retailer or hardware store if you have one. 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 on your particular type of 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 some other tool with a thin, flat blade. You can wedge your tool into a slot on the bottom of the key fob. You might also want to be on the lookout for small pieces that could be loosened while working.

Once you have the new battery, you can insert it the same way that you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons and the reverse (-) the markings on the battery compartment.

You can push a button to test the fob. If it fails, it may be a problem with your car that needs to be fixed or replaced by a specialist.

Certain key fobs can be difficult to open and their contacts may be brittle and easily corroded. In these situations, the best option is to consult a car specialist or a dealer. If you need to replace the battery, make sure to be very gentle and follow the instructions that are specific to the owner's manual. You might be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or big-box retailer but you'll have to check the owner's manual to be sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.

Replacing the Internal Key

Most key fobs include the physical key mechanical that is hidden within the fob to prevent thieves. If the battery of the fob fails, it leaves behind a blank internal key that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases, start certain cars). Most people aren't aware of this however, they can save themselves having to go to the dealership by simply replacing the fob's battery. The flat watch-style batteries are used in most modern fobs. These batteries can be found at hardware and auto parts stores. Using the correct type of battery is crucial, however. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry and cause the fob to fail sooner.

If the problem continues to persist after replacing the battery, it may be a sign that something else is wrong with your vehicle. Check your owner's manual to see if there's a reset procedure that can restore the fob to the factory program. If that doesn't help, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle security systems and fob programming.

Fobs may also malfunction due to 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 vehicle and start it using the fob. If you're having to get closer and closer to your vehicle to get it to work, there's a good chance the transmitter is failing.

It could be required for a professional to remove the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually get the job done however, some fobs have complicated release mechanisms that require a specialized tool or specialized equipment that is available only through a dealer. It's a good idea to have a qualified mechanic do this job so that you don't accidentally break the fob or hurt yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. Because these batteries are cheap and easily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is a good first step before purchasing an entirely new car key Fob repair key fob.

You can also re-program your key fob on your own by following some basic steps. This process varies between vehicle brands, so it's essential to consult your owner's manual as well as research the specifics of your model. A key fob may require that the ignition be turned on while programming. Another might need the key to be removed and inserted several times.

The basic procedure is simple. First, make sure that the new battery is securely in place. Close all doors, except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle correctly. Put the old key in the ignition and turn it ON, but do not start the engine. Then press the lock button on the fob, while making sure to point it towards the transmission receiver, which is usually located in the front of the vehicle above the mirror. In a short period of time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's been programmed by turning off the doors' locks or emitting the sound of a chime. This process can be tricky, so it's important to pay attention to the timing and not to over-press the key button.

If the key fob won't work after reprogramming, try replacing the batteries. If the issue persists then a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or a locksmith should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment necessary to re-program your car's fob or make the key if required.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for $200 to $250, based on the model of vehicle. However, he's had to refuse customers with European models because there's no equipment required. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always inquire with your local car dealer to determine the price.

How to get a new fob

If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you may require an alternative. Depending on the brand and model, the dealer or an auto locksmith might 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 required to program your remote car key repair properly. If you're looking for a cheaper option, a number of independent locksmiths can offer you a brand-new car key fob for a much more reasonable cost.

Before you decide to purchase a new fob it's recommended to consider resetting your current one. The owner's manual will outline the proper reset procedure, which is usually just the pushing of a button which restores the factory settings.

You should also check the owner's guide and warranty information to determine whether you can obtain an additional key fob. If your car is under warranty, or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership that provides bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of a new fob.

Finding a fob is simple enough, but finding the right location to get it done can be a challenge. You might want to go to the dealer for this service if have a newer car key fob repair and want to be confident that your key fobs are functioning properly. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that can provide the same service at a lower price.

If you aren't comfortable handling this type of work yourself, a professional locksmith may be a good option. They are skilled and equipped to reprogram or replace all kinds of car key fobs and often, they can do it quickly. Additionally, locksmiths is often able to come to your office or home to do the job, which can be very useful for certain people. They can even cut and program keys on-site if you have lost keys, which is great for those who don't like to leave their vehicles unattended.