car key repairs and Repair
Modern car key fobs are used often and are often abused. Sometimes, an easy repair or replacement is all it takes to get them working again.
Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are readily available in auto parts retailers. Before calling in a professional, you can do some of the DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The key fob battery powers the remote feature in your car. It also, with push-to start vehicles, permits it to start your engine. This is why it is crucial to maintain a healthy, working battery. When you're on the go, a dead key fob can be a huge problem. A simple, affordable replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The most frequent sign that a key fob battery is dying is the decrease in signal strength and range. It is also possible to find that the buttons on your fob don't work or require additional effort to activate.
It is common to find the latest key fob batteries in the auto parts section of a large box store or on the internet. Typically, they are CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are available in packs of two or more. Consult your owner's guide before you shop for the right battery. Some cars require a specific size or type of battery, which isn't always readily available at big-box stores. Make sure to verify before you buy.
The battery is typically located on the back of the key fob. It can be removed with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade by removing the case. The battery will appear like a small coin and will be labeled according to its size. Make sure to note the way the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the new battery is positioned correctly. After the replacement battery has been installed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob together and test the buttons to make sure they function.
If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, it may be deprogrammed. In this case, you'll need to contact a locksmith for help, which will cost a little more than simply replacing the key fob battery.
YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob if it is damaged or if the battery is dead. Make an appointment to look over the range of services we offer in your local area.
Weak Signals
If your key fob does not respond to the buttons on the remote it could be an indication that the signaling is not working properly. Radio signals are used to communicate between your car and the key fob. Weak or inconsistent radio signals can lead to low performance and limited range.
One of the first things you should examine is whether the battery of your fob is depleted, as this can significantly impact signal sensitivity. It's also advisable to reset the settings on your fob and help get an even and consistent response from the car. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a phone call to the manufacturer's help line is likely to be the best source of information here.
Other factors, such as interference from other devices operating at the same frequency can also contribute to weak signals. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle.
Finally physical damage to your key fob can also interfere with the transmission of signals RF, which may result in poor range and performance. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or bent fob case can interfere with the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not respond.
There are a few simple steps you can try to and solve the issue of weak fob signals for example, resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. If your fob is old and worn out, it might be the right time to replace it.
Don't forget to utilize the spare remote that came with your car in the event that your primary remote begins to fail. You should test this option first to determine if you can fix the problem before buying an entirely new remote. If not, this might be the right moment to call an expert auto locksmith. They can identify the issue and suggest the best course of action.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can have problems at times. Fortunately, most of these problems are not complicated or a major issue and can be fixed by following a few simple steps. It's a good idea also to keep spare batteries or an additional fob on hand in the event that your key ceases to work.
The most frequent reason for the car key fob not working is a dead battery. These tiny devices depend on tiny lithium-ion coin or button cell batteries to function. These batteries are easily replaceable and can be found at most pharmacies and stores. You can open your fob's casing using a screwdriver with a flat head and gently pry out the battery. Ensure that it is not damaged or loose and then simply pop in the new battery. Most fobs require CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require a different type.
If your device loses pairing, it could cease to respond to buttons. This can happen due to a variety of factors, including changing the batteries, but it is typically a simple issue for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.
If none of the strategies above work, try this trick: disconnect the batteries from the car and fob for a few minutes, then reconnect the two in the opposite order. This could trigger a restart within the system and in some cases, this alone will fix the problem without doing any of the other steps.
When you're playing around with the fob, be sure to keep it clear of water and other possible sources of damage. The fob is tough but you need to treat it with care to ensure it lasts as long as it can.
If the above troubleshooting tips do not help, it may be time to consider replacing your key fob. If it's been dropped or tripped over, or exposed to other harsh environmental conditions it could be beyond repair and in need of a replacement. If that's the case, be sure to shop around to find a bargain before making a final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best of care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs may occasionally stop working. If yours is lost, it can be extremely expensive to replace it, particularly in the event that you don't have spare. "You may end up paying $50 - $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by a dealer, and a mechanical backup that will cost you another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
One of the most common reasons for a key fob to not function is a simple problem, such as an insufficient battery. You can try replacing the battery on your own when you know how, or refer to the owner's manual. But if that doesn't fix the problem, you need to get help from an expert.
A locksmith is capable of helping you locate your lost fob or get it replaced. A locksmith will probably know the reason why your fob stopped working in the first initial place. And if your vehicle is an older model that has no built-in smart technology it is possible to save money by finding the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and storing it in a secure place, such as your wallet or on your phone. This can make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a new key fob for your car if you ever need to do it.
If your current key fob is a modern smart key and you want to change it, you'll need to go to an auto dealer or locksmith to deprogram it and get a new one created which is more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by encryption using rolling-codes, which prevents thieves from gaining access to the car. This means that the locksmith must have a special programing tool that only the vehicle manufacturer has, which increases the overall expense.
In most cases, the whole process will be charged the same time. This includes any costs for reprogramming a keyfob. Depending on the vehicle, that can run from a mere $20 at some shops to $200 or more at a car dealership.