15 Gifts For The Car Key Fob Repair Lover In Your Life
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Car Key Fob Repairs
Key fobs today do a lot more than unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity could cause costly repair costs when it fails.
The positive side is that many fobs are equipped with flat-watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. You may find that a simple reset will bring your fob back to life.
Battery Replacement
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a key fob not working. It's simple to repair and worth a try before you spend money on an alternative fob. You can buy a new button cell battery at your local auto part retailer or hardware store if you have one. You can also consult your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) for specific instructions on how to open and replace the battery in your fob.
Most fobs have two halves that snap togetheryou'll have to gently pull the sides apart to get to the battery. You'll require a small flat-bladed screwdriver or another tool with a blade that is thin. You can wedge your tool into a notch on the bottom of the key fob. It is also advisable to watch out for tiny pieces that may come loose while working.
When you have your new battery, you can insert it in the same manner that you removed the old one. The positive (+) side should face the buttons and the negative (-) the markings on the battery compartment.
Test the fob to see whether it functions by pressing the button. If it doesn't, you may have an issue with your car that requires a specialist to repair or replace.
Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close, and the connections inside can be fragile and susceptible to corroding. In these cases the best solution is to speak with a specialist or dealer. When replacing a battery be gentle and follow the owner's guide. You may be able find a battery similar at a big-box retailer or discounter, but be sure to check the owner's manual to ensure it's compatible with your car.
Replacing the Internal Key
To guard against theft, many key fobs have an electronic key inside. When the fob battery dies it leaves behind a blank internal key that is able to unlock trunks and doors (and in some cases, start certain vehicles). Many people don't realize this however they could avoid from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob battery. The flat watch-style battery is found in the majority of modern fobs. They can be found in hardware and auto parts stores. Using the correct type of battery is essential however. A wrong battery can harm the circuitry and cause the fob to fail much earlier.
If the issue persists after replacing the battery, it may be an indication that something else is going on with your vehicle. Check your owner's manual to determine if you have a reset procedure that will restore the fob to factory-setup. 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 fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually built into the dashboard or next to the steering wheel, and they transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car using the fob. If you notice that you're having to get closer and closer to your vehicle in order to make it work, there's a good possibility that the transmitter is not working.
It may be required for a professional to remove the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually get the job done, but some fobs have complex release mechanisms that require a specialized tool or specialized equipment available only through a dealer. It is a good idea to have a qualified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't break the fob or injure yourself.
Reprogramming the Key
A key fob that's not working may simply need an upgrade in battery. Because they are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's the ideal first step before investing in an entirely new car key fob.
You can also re-program your key fob by yourself if you follow some basic steps. This process varies between vehicle makes, so it's important to read the owner's manual as well as research the specifics of your particular model. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be on while reprogramming it. Another may require the key to be removed and inserted repeatedly.
The procedure is easy. First, ensure that the new battery is securely in place. Then, get into the driver's seat, and close all doors, excluding the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key is communicating with the vehicle properly. Then, put the old key back into the ignition and turn it to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Then press the lock button on the fob while looking at the transmission receiver, which is usually located in the front of the vehicle above the mirror. The key will signal to the vehicle within a brief amount of time that it is being programmed. This can be accomplished by cycling the door locks or emitting an audible chime. This procedure can be difficult, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and don't over-press the key button.
If the key fob does not function after reprogramming, you can try replacing the batteries. If the issue isn't resolved, a visit to your car dealer or a locksmith should be considered. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment to reprogram the car fob or design a new one, if required.
Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs that range between $200 and $250, depending on the model of vehicle. Genesky has experienced European models rejected due to the fact that there isn't the equipment needed. The majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but you should always check with your local car dealer to find out the price.
How do I get a brand new fob
If your key fob cannot be repaired, you might have to purchase a new one. Depending on the model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership might be able to assist. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive choice for a replacement fob, but it will also have the tools and software necessary to program your car correctly. If you are looking for a less expensive solution, many independent locksmiths can offer you a brand-new car key fob at a lower cost.
Before you decide to purchase an entirely new device, it is recommended to consider resetting your current device. The owner's manual should explain the correct procedure for reset which is typically the pushing of a button that restores it to factory programming.
It's an excellent idea to read your owner's manual as well as warranty information before you decide where to go for a key fob replacement. If your car is still under warranty, or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership with bumper-to-bumper insurance, you might be eligible for reimbursement for the cost of an entirely new fob.
Finding a fob is simple enough, but finding the right place to have it done isn't easy. If you own a new car and want the security with knowing that your keys fobs are in good condition, you might be better off visiting the dealership for this service. If you're looking for an option that is more affordable, it is often possible to find an independent locksmith who can provide the same services for a significantly lower price.
If you aren't comfortable handling this type of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a good option. They are trained and equipped to repair or replace auto key repair keys for cars of all kinds and do it quickly. A locksmith is also able to visit your house or office which is convenient for many people. They can cut and program keys on the spot in case you've lost keys. This is ideal for those who do not like to leave their car unattended.