What Is Car Key Fob Repair's History? History Of Car Key Fob Repair
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do a lot more than just unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can cause high repair bills in the event that one of them malfunctions.
The good news is that the majority of fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You may even find that a reset will bring it back to life.
Battery Replacement
The most frequent reason why a key fob stops working is because of an inoperative battery. This is easy to repair, and is worth a try before you spend money on a new key fob. Simply take your car to a local auto parts store or a hardware retailer that sells button cell batteries and pick up the replacement. You can also consult your owner's manual (or in the case that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people who show you how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery on your particular type of fob.
The majority of fobs have two halves that snap togetherYou'll need to pull the sides apart to access the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or another tool that has a flat, thin blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob which you can wedge your tool between. You might also want to be on the lookout for small pieces that may come loose while you work.
Once you have your new battery, insert it in the same manner that you removed the previous one. key repair shop near me (+) side should be facing the buttons and the reverse (-) the marks on the battery compartment.
Push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't work, there might be a problem with your vehicle that needs to be fixed or replaced by a specialist.
Some key fobs are difficult to open and their contacts may be brittle and easily corroded. In these cases you should consult a specialist in your car or dealer may be your best option. When replacing a battery, be gentle and follow your owner's instructions. You might be able to find an identical battery in a big-box store or discounter, but be sure to check the owner's manual to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle.
Replacing the Internal Key
To protect against theft, the majority of key fobs have an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. When the battery in the fob fails it will leave a blank key left behind, which can be used to open trunks and doors. In some instances the key could even start certain vehicles. A majority of people do not realize that they can avoid a trip to the dealership by replacing the fob batteries. Most modern fobs have flat watch-style batteries that are readily available at hardware stores and auto parts shops. Choosing the right type of battery is important however. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry and cause the fob to fail much earlier.
If the problem continues to persist after you replace the battery, it could be a sign that there is something else wrong in your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to determine if you have a reset procedure that will restore the fob's factory-setup. If this doesn't work then you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.
Fobs could also fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically 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 get it to work.
A professional might need to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually work, however certain fobs require a specific tool or a special piece of equipment that can only be found at a dealer. This is a job that should be done by a certified mechanic to avoid damaging the fob as well as yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working just requires a new battery. Since these batteries are inexpensive and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is an excellent first step prior to purchasing a new car key fob.
You can also re-program your key fob on your own If you follow a few basic steps. The procedure varies for different vehicle manufacturers, so it is important to refer to the owner's manual as well as research the specifics of your model. One key fob might require that the ignition be turned on while changing the program. Another might need the key to be removed and inserted several times.
The process is straightforward. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob communicates with the vehicle correctly. Insert the old key into the ignition, then turn it ON, 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. Within a brief time the key will announce to the vehicle that it's programmed by turning off the doors locks or emitting a chime. This procedure can be difficult and it's crucial to be attentive to the timing and not to over-press the key button.
If the key fob isn't working, try reprogramming it again using new batteries. If the problem persists then a visit to your dealer for your car or locksmiths should be considered. A professional will have the tools and programming equipment necessary to re-program your car's fob, or create an entirely new key if required.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, depending on the vehicle. However, he's had the need to turn away customers with European models due to the fact that there's no equipment required. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always inquire with your local dealer to determine the cost.
How to get a new fob
If the key fob you have cannot be repaired, you may require an entirely new one. Depending on your vehicle's model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but they will also have all the required tools and software needed to programme your vehicle properly. Numerous locksmiths who are independent provide a new car key fob at a much lower price.
It's a good idea to try to reset your current fob before you rush out to buy a new one. The owner's guide should explain the correct method of reset. It is typically a series button presses that reset the factory program.
It is an excellent idea to read the owner's manual and warranty information before you decide which place to go for a key fob replacement. If your vehicle's warranty is in good standing or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could be eligible to receive a reimbursement for the cost of a replacement fob.
Finding the right place to get the fob you need can be difficult. If you have a relatively new vehicle and you want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your key fobs are in good working condition, you might prefer going to the dealership for this service. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service for an affordable cost.
If you're not comfortable doing this type of work on your own A professional locksmith could be a great choice. They are skilled and equipped to replace or reprogram the majority of car key fobs, and often they can complete the task quickly. Locksmiths is also able to visit your office or home, which is convenient for a lot of people. They can cut and program keys on the spot in case you've lost them. This is great for those who don't want to leave their car unattended.