Key Fob Replacement and Repair

Modern car key fobs are utilized frequently and are often misused. In most cases, an easy repair or replacement is all you need to make them functional again.

The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries, which are readily available in auto parts retailers. But before you call an expert, try a few DIY solutions!

Dead Key Fob Batteries

The battery in the key fob powers the remote function in your car. It also, with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. It is therefore important to maintain a functional and healthy battery. A dead key fob can be an issue when you're traveling. A simple, affordable replacement will fix the problem quickly.

The loss of range and signal strength are among the most common indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. You may also notice the buttons on the key fob aren't working or require extra effort.

A new key fob can be found in the auto parts section of a big retailer or on the internet. They are typically CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. However, it's a good idea to consult your owner's manual before you shop for the right battery for remote your device. Some cars require a specific size or type that is not always available at big-box stores. Be sure to research before purchasing.

The battery is usually located on the back of the key fob. It can be removed with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade by prying the case open. The battery will look like tiny coins and will be labeled according to its size. Be sure to note which way the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the new battery is properly placed. Once the battery replacement is installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob together and test all of the buttons to ensure that they work.

If your key fob isn't working after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this instance, you'll need to contact an expert locksmith and it will cost you a little more than simply replacing the key fob battery.

YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery has failed. Set up an appointment to review all of the services we offer in your area.

Weak Signals

If you find that your key fob isn't responding to the buttons on the remote, this can be a sign of a problem with the signaling. Radio signals are used to send messages between your car and the key repair fob. Weak or inconsistent radio signals can result in low performance and limited range.

The battery level of your fob is a good idea as it can affect the sensitivity of your signal. It is also recommended to reset the settings of your fob, which can help to restore a more consistent response from the car. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support line is your best source of information.

Other factors, such as interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency can also affect weak signals. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices may interfere with the radio frequency (radio-frequency) signals your key fob transmits to the receiver of your vehicle.

Damage to your keyfob's physical structure can also interfere with the transmission of radio signal, leading to lower performance and less range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked buttons or a bent case could affect the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.

There are some simple steps you can take to try and solve the issue of weak fob signals, for example, resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. If your fob is worn out, it's probably time to replace it altogether.

Also, don't forget if you have an extra key fob which is part of your vehicle, it could be used as a replacement for the primary remote in case it begins to fail. You should test this option first to see if it can resolve the issue before buying a new remote. If not, this might be the best time to contact an experienced auto locksmith. They'll be able to determine the cause and recommend the best solution.

Physical Damage

It's not uncommon for key fobs to encounter issues from time-to-time. Most of the time, these issues aren't complex or difficult to fix and can be solved with a few simple steps. It's a good idea also to keep spare batteries or an additional fob on hand in case your key ever ceases to work.

A dead battery is the main reason for a car keyfob not working. These tiny devices depend on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. They can be replaced and are available in most pharmacies and stores. You can remove your fob's shell with an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently remove the battery. Replace the battery, ensuring it's not damaged, loose or damaged. Most fobs use CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require a different kind.

If your device loses its pairing, it may also stop responding to buttons. This can happen due to a number of factors, including changing the batteries, but is usually easy for an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to resolve.

You can try this method to fix your fob when none of the other methods work: disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for about 10 minutes, then reconnect them in a reverse order. This could cause the system to reboot, and in some cases it will resolve the issue without additional steps.

When you're playing around with the fob, ensure to keep it away from water and other possible sources of damage. Fobs can be quite durable, but it's important to treat it with care in order for it to last as long as it can.

If all of the above troubleshooting suggestions don't help, it might be time to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped over, or exposed to other harsh environmental conditions it may be beyond repair and may require a replacement. Find the best deal.

Lost Fob

Even with the best care, it's a fact of life that car key fobs can occasionally fail to function. If you lose yours, it can be extremely expensive to replace it--especially in the event that you don't have spare. "You could end up paying $50 or more to purchase a new replacement from the dealer and have it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup which could cost you at least another $100," says Mel Yu who is an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is among the most common reasons for a keyfob to cease to function. You can try replacing the battery on your own if you know how or get instructions from your owner's manual. If this doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to get help from an expert.

A locksmith can be able to help you find the lost fob or have it replaced. They will also likely have an idea of the reason your fob stopped functioning in the first place. If your car is old and does not include smart technology, you can still save money by recording the number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's typically hidden behind an ornamental keychain. If you need to reprogram the key fob of your car the locksmith can do it more easily.

If your key fob is an older smart key, it'll need to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or car dealer. This can cost more than just replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from getting access to your car. And that means the locksmith must have an exclusive programming tool that only the car manufacturer is equipped with, which adds to the overall expense.

In most instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any costs to reprogram the new key fob. Depending on the type of vehicle the cost can range from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a dealership for cars.