10 Myths Your Boss Has About Car Key Fob Repair
10 Myths Your Boss Has About Car Key Fob Repair
Blog Article
Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do much more than simply unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can result in high repair bills in the event that one of them malfunctions.
It's good to know that a majority of fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries which can be easily replaced at home. It is possible that a simple reset is enough to bring your fob back to life.
Battery Replacement
The most common reason a key fob stops working is because of an inoperative battery. It's simple to fix and worth trying before you purchase an alternative fob. Simply drive your car to an auto parts store or hardware retailer that sells button cell batteries and pick up the replacement. You can also consult the 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 for opening and replacing the battery on your particular type of fob.
The majority of fobs have two halves that snap together -You'll need to break the sides to get to the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or a different tool with a thin, flat blade. You can wedge your tool into a notch on the bottom of the key fob. You may also want to keep an eye out for small pieces that could fall off while working.
Once you have the new battery, you can insert it in the same way that you removed the previous one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons, while the opposite side is facing (-), the markings on the battery compartment.
Test the fob to see whether it functions by pressing a button. If it doesn't, there could be an issue with your vehicle that requires a professional to fix or replace.
Certain key fobs require specific tools to open and close, and the connections inside may be delicate and easily corroded. In these instances the best choice is to speak with a specialist or dealer. When replacing a battery be gentle and follow the owner's manual. You may be able to find a similar battery at a discounter store or a big-box retailer, but you'll need to consult your owner's manual to be sure that it's the right one for your vehicle.
Replace the internal key
To prevent theft, most key fobs have a mechanical key hidden inside. When the battery in the fob dies it will leave an internal key blank which can open trunks and doors (and in some cases, even start certain vehicles). Most people don't realize that they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob batteries. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are readily available at auto parts stores and hardware shops. Choosing the right type of battery is important, however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry, causing the fob to fail much earlier.
If the problem persists after replacing the battery, it may be a sign that there is something else wrong with your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to determine if you have a reset procedure that can restore the fob to the factory program. If that doesn't help, you'll need to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle security systems and fob programming.
Fobs can also malfunction due to faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually built into the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they send signals that allow you to unlock and start your car with the fob. You may need to get closer to your car to enable it.
It could be required for a professional to remove the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to do the trick, but some fobs require a specialized tool or special equipment that can only be found at a dealership. This job should be done by a certified mechanic in order to avoid damaging the fob and yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that's not working may simply need a new battery. They are easily available in pharmacy and home improvement stores and are inexpensive. This is a great way to start before buying the new key fob.
You can also re-program your key fob by yourself if you follow a few basic steps. This process varies between vehicle makes, so it's important to read the owner's manual and study the specifics of your particular model. For example the key fob might require that the ignition be on while reprogramming it. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed several times.
The basic procedure is simple. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure the new key is communicating with the vehicle correctly. Put the old key in the ignition, turn it on but don't start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob toward the transmission receiver. This is usually located on the front, above the mirror. In a short period of time, the key will indicate to the vehicle that it's being programmed by triggering the doors' locks or emitting an emitted sound. This can be a tricky process, so pay attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.
If the key fob does not work, try reprogramming it again with new batteries. If the issue is still there, you might want to check with your local dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment required to reprogram your car's fob, or even create a brand new one if needed.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, depending on the vehicle. But he's had to turn down customers who have European models because they don't have the costly equipment required. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmable but it's always best to talk to the dealer of your choice first to find out what their price is.
How to get a new fob
If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you might need to purchase a new one. Based on the make and model, an auto locksmith or dealership might be able to assist. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive choice for a replacement fob however, it will also have the tools and software necessary to program your car correctly. For a more affordable solution, many independent locksmiths can offer you an entirely new car key fob for a more affordable cost.
Before you rush to get an entirely new device it's an excellent idea to try resetting your current one. Your owner's manual should outline the proper reset procedure that is typically pushing a few buttons which restores the original programming.
It is an excellent idea to read the owner's manual and warranty information before you decide the best place to get the replacement of your key fob. If your car is under warranty, or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership with bumper-to-bumper insurance, you might be eligible to receive a reimbursement for the cost of the new fob.
Finding the best location to purchase a fob can be difficult. You may want to go to the dealer for this service if have a newer car and you want to be confident that your key fobs are functioning repair car remote control key correctly. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service at an affordable cost.
If you're not confident handling this kind of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a good option. They are trained and equipped to reprogram or replace most types of car key fobs, and they can often complete the task quickly. Locksmiths can also visit your house or office which is a great option for many people. They can even cut and program keys on-site if you have lost keys, which is great for those who do not want to leave their cars unattended.