Ten Fob Key Repairs That Really Help You Live Better

Key Fob Replacement and Repair

Modern car key fobs are utilized a great deal and are often misused. Often a simple repair or replacement is all that’s needed to get them working again.

Most fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to find in auto parts retailers. But before you call a professional, try a few DIY fixes!

Dead Key Fob Battery

The battery in the key fob powers the remote function in your car key repair service. It also, in conjunction with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. This is why it is essential to keep an efficient, functioning battery. When you’re on the go and your key fob is not working, it can be a huge problem. The good news is that a simple, inexpensive replacement can fix it quickly.

The loss of range and signal strength are among the most common indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on your key fob are not working or require additional effort.

You will often find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a big box store or on the internet. They are typically CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are sold in packs of two or more. However it’s best to consult your owner’s manual prior to purchasing the correct battery for your vehicle. Certain vehicles require a certain size or type of battery that isn’t always available at big-box retailers, so be sure to be aware of the correct specifications before you purchase.

Typically the battery is situated in the back of your key fob. It can be removed by prying the case open with the flat-blade screwdriver. The battery will look like an ordinary coin and be identified according to its size. Be sure to note down the orientation of the plus and minus marks so that you can put the new battery in the correct place. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together, and test the buttons.

If your Key Repairs fob doesn’t work after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this case, you’ll need to contact a locksmith for help which will cost a bit more than replacing the key fob battery.

The skilled mechanics at YourMechanic are able to repair your key fob in the event that it’s damaged or the battery has failed. Set up an appointment to review all of the services we provide in your region.

Weak Signals

If your key fob isn’t able to respond to the buttons of the remote key fob repairs it could be an indication that the signaling isn’t working correctly. Radio signals are used to send messages between your car and the key fob. Poor or inconsistent radio signals can result in poor performance and a limited range.

The battery level of your fob is a good idea, because it could affect the sensitivity of your signal. It is also recommended to reset the settings of your fob, which can help to bring back an even and consistent response from the car. The process varies from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner’s manual or call to the helpline of the manufacturer will likely be your best resource here.

Other factors, such as interference from other devices operating on the same frequency can also affect weak signals. Power lines as well as other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.

Damage to your keyfob’s physical structure can affect the transmission of RF signal, resulting in poor performance and range. A blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob could all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote not to function properly.

You can resolve the issue by resetting the settings on your fob or by replacing the battery. If, however, your fob is worn out, it’s time to replace it completely.

Also, don’t forget if you have a spare key fob that is part of your vehicle, it can be used in place of the primary remote in the event that it starts to fail. You should try this solution first to see if you can resolve the issue before buying a new remote. In this situation it could be the right time to call an expert auto-locksmith. They’ll be able to determine the cause and suggest the best course of action.

Physical Damage

It’s not uncommon for key fobs to encounter issues from time-to-time. Most of the time, these problems aren’t complicated or serious and can be resolved with a few simple steps. It’s a good idea to keep spare batteries or a different fob in case your key ever stops working.

The most common reason for a car key fob not working is a dead battery. These tiny devices depend on tiny lithium-ion button or coin batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and can be found in most pharmacies, grocery stores and shops that sell electronic products. You can remove your fob’s casing using a flat head screwdriver and gently pry out the battery that is in there. Ensure that it is not damaged or loose and then simply pop in an alternative battery. The majority of fobs use CR2032 batteries. However, yours may require an alternative type.

When your fob loses its pairing, it can cease to respond to buttons. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or local dealership can usually solve the issue.

If none of the solutions above work, you can try this trick: unplug the batteries from the car and the fob for a few minutes and then reconnect them in a reverse order. This can force the system to restart and in certain cases, this will fix the issue without further steps.

While you’re testing the fob, be sure to keep it out of water and other damage sources. Fobs can be quite durable, but it’s important to take care with it if you want it to last as long as possible.

If the above troubleshooting suggestions do not help, it may be time to replace your key fob. If it’s been thrown around or tripped over, or exposed to other environmental hazards, it could be damaged beyond repair and in need of a replacement. Look around for the most affordable price.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care keys for cars, they can fail at times. If yours is lost, it can be extremely expensive to replace it, especially if you don’t have a spare. “You could end up paying $50 or more for a new replacement from the dealer and then have it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup, which could cost you at least another $100,” says Mel Yu, an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.

One of the most frequent reasons for a key fob’s to stop working is a simple issue, like an insufficient battery. If you are familiar with how to change the battery, or if your owner’s guide has instructions, you can attempt it yourself. If this doesn’t work, you’ll need to contact an expert.

A locksmith can help replace or find the lost key fob. They’ll also probably have a good idea of the reason why your fob was not working in the first instance. And if your vehicle is an older model with no built-in smart technology, you can save some money by finding the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it’s typically hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and recording it in a secure place, such as in your wallet or on your phone. This will make it much easier for the locksmith to reprogram the new key fob to your car in the event that you need to do so.

If the key fob you have is a modern smart key, you’ll have to visit an auto dealer or locksmith to deprogram it and get an entirely new one and this can be more expensive than simply replacing it. The reason is that modern key fobs utilize rolling-code encryption that prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that locksmiths must be equipped with a specific programing tool that is only available to car manufacturers, which can increase the cost.

In most instances, you’ll have to pay for the entire service at once, including the cost of programming the new key fob. Depending on the vehicle, that can run from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a car dealer.