15 Pinterest Boards That Are The Best Of All Time About Car Key Fob Repair
15 Pinterest Boards That Are The Best Of All Time About Car Key Fob Repair
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Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today can do much more than unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can lead to expensive repair bills when it fails.
It's good to know that the majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, that can be replaced at home. You may even find that a reset will make your device work again.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the main cause of a key fob not working. It's a simple repair, and is worth trying before you spend money on a new fob. Simply drive your car to a local auto parts store or hardware retailer that stocks button cell batteries and purchase a replacement. You can also refer to the owner's manual (or, if you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people explaining how to do it) for specific instructions on opening and replacing the battery in your particular type of fob.
You'll need to gently pull away the sides of the majority of fobs to access the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or some other tool that has a flat, thin blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the lower edge of the fob that you can use to wedge your tool between. You may also want to look for tiny pieces that could break loose as you work.
Once you have the new battery, insert it in the same manner that you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons and the reverse (-) the marks on the compartment for the battery.
Press a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, you might have an issue with your vehicle that requires a professional to repair or replace.
Some key fobs require special tools to open and close them, and the contacts inside could be fragile and susceptible to corroding. In these cases you should consult a specialist in your car or a dealer could be your best option. If you're looking to replace the battery, make sure to be gentle and follow the specific instructions in your owner's manual. You might be able to find a battery similar at a big-box retailer or discounter, but make sure to check the owner's manual to ensure it is compatible with your car.
Replacing the Internal Key
To protect against theft, the majority of key fobs come with an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. When the fob battery dies it leaves behind a blank internal key that can unlock trunks and doors (and in some cases, even start certain vehicles). Most people don't realize that they can save a trip to a dealership by recharging the fob batteries. The flat watch-style batteries are used in most modern fobs. These batteries are easily found in hardware stores and auto parts stores. The right kind of battery is important, however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry and cause the fob's failure much sooner.
If you try replacing the battery and discover that the issue is still there, it could be a sign that something else is going on in your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to see if there's a reset procedure that can restore the fob's factory-setup. If this doesn't help, you'll need to go to a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.
Fobs may also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to allow you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. If you're required to move closer and closer to your car to be able to make it work, there's a high possibility that the transmitter is not working.
A professional might need to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually do the trick, but some fobs require a specialized tool or special equipment that can only be purchased at a dealership. This task must be handled by a certified mechanic to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that's not working could just require an upgrade in battery. Since these batteries are inexpensive and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is a good first step before purchasing an entirely new car key fob.
You can also change the programming of your key fob on your own If you follow some basic steps. This procedure can differ between vehicles, so you should refer to the owner's manual and research the model you have. For instance, one key fob may require the ignition to be turned on while reprogramming it. Another might need the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.
The basic procedure is simple. First, make sure that the new battery is in place. Close all doors except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob communicates with the vehicle correctly. Put the old key in the ignition, turn it ON however, do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob toward the transmission receiver. It is usually located on the left side, just above the mirror. Within a short time frame the key will announce to the vehicle that it's being programmed by turning off the doors' locks or generating 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 doesn't work after reprogramming, try using new batteries. If the issue isn't resolved, a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or locksmiths should be considered. A professional will have the tools and programming equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or clone an entirely new key if needed.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs at around $200-$250, based on the car. Genesky has experienced European models rejected because they don't have the equipment needed. A majority of the aftermarket fobs are programmed, but always consult your local dealer to determine the cost.
Finding a New Fob
If the key fob you have cannot be repaired, you may need to buy another one. Depending on the brand and model, the dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but they will also have all the required tools and software to program your car correctly. For a more affordable solution, many independent locksmiths will be able to provide you with a brand-new car key fob at a lower cost.
Before you decide to purchase a new fob, it is an excellent idea to try resetting your current device. The owner's manual should provide the correct method of reset. This is usually the result of a series of button presses that restores the factory programming.
It's an excellent idea to read your owner's manual and warranty information before you decide where g28carkeys to go for the replacement of your key fob. If your car is still under warranty, or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership that includes bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be eligible for reimbursement for the cost of an entirely new fob.
Getting a fob is easy enough however, finding the right location to get it done can be tricky. You may want to visit the dealer to get this service if you have a newer vehicle and are looking to feel secure knowing that your key fobs work correctly. If you are seeking a less expensive alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith that will provide the same service for less cost.
If you're not comfortable doing this type of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a great choice. They are trained and equipped to change or reprogram key fobs for cars of all types and do it quickly. Locksmiths can also visit your office or home which is a great option for many. They can cut and program keys on site if you've lost keys. This is great for those who don't want to leave their car unattended.