The key fob of your car will experience many wear and wear and tear. It's why it's essential to have a backup ready in case yours stops working.
The most common issue is an unresponsive or dead battery. There are other possible reasons why your key repair fob isn't working. Some automakers make it easy to replace the battery in their fobs, and the instructions are usually available on the Internet.
Dead Key Fob Battery
A dead battery is one of the most common causes for a keyfob to be slow. If you find that you have to push the unlock button several times before your car responds or it can't lock from as far away as it once could It's probably time to buy an upgrade to the battery. The good news is that, unlike your car's battery it's relatively simple to replace the battery on your key fob yourself.
The first thing to do is verify that the fob actually works, which means pressing the unlock button a few times. Once you're sure it isn't due to being out of range it's possible to try a few things to help revive it. Ensure you have your fob. If there is enough power in the battery, you can turn it on it by pressing it against the driver's door handle.
The battery's type will be embossed onto the key fob. It's usually a battery called a button cell. Brands such as Duracell or Energizer sell buttons. Once you've got the correct battery, remove the old one and put in the new one with the positive side facing up. Join the fob halves and test the lock/unlock/start function.
If you want to make sure you're protected you can take the fob to a repair shop or your dealer to replace the battery. This will probably cost you a bit more than if doing it yourself however it's a good idea have someone else do it so that you don't accidentally damage the circuit board while you're trying to open the key fob to swap the battery.
If you'd like to save cost, you can purchase a CR2032 battery from an hardware store or a big box retailer, and then follow the steps in your owner's manual (which is probably available online as PDFs on the manufacturer's website, or at least on YouTube) to change out the battery of your fob yourself. It's a simple process and will restore all the handy remote function that you rely on for your trips around Springfield.
Buttons Damaged
The key fob is an integral part of our lives and while it may seem odd to think that your car key fob needs maintenance, the reality is that they do wear out. Often, these aren't serious and it can be as simple as replacing the battery. Other issues can be noticed that indicate the keyfob is in need of attention.
The power button may be the reason behind your key fob not functioning or buttons not functioning. Cell buttons can be damaged from wear and tear, and internal components could be damaged or knocked out. There are DIY kits to replace power buttons, but it can be difficult to work with such small and delicate components. It's also risky to try and replace the power button since you could end up damaging the circuitry.
Some locksmiths in the automotive industry have equipment for this type of repair, and they can complete it while you are waiting. They can fix the buttons and have them looking like new in just a few minutes.
If you don't want to engage an expert, you can buy aftermarket key repair shop near me fobs at a fractional price. They look exactly like the original key lock repair near me fob. Some retailers in the automotive industry and dealerships will allow you to program them to your vehicle, but some won't. Genesky claims he is able to program his fobs for most automobiles manufactured prior to the '90s but he has to turn away customers with newer Audi or BMW models because he doesn't have the necessary programming equipment.
It's also important to verify your vehicle's basic warranty and extended warranties as well as roadside assistance coverage to see whether they cover the cost of a replacement key fob, or at least some of the costs. This will help you to determine if it's worth the cost of a key fob repair or just getting a replacement altogether.
Circuitry Problems
Your key fob experiences a lot of abuse and stress when you use it, since it is thrown around, tossed and exposed to cold and hot on a daily basis. This can damage internal parts which include the tiny electronic circuitry that transmits signals to the car. Depending on how damaged these signals are, they could stop working and stop you from opening your doors or even starting your car.
If you've tried replacing the battery but it's still not working the fob could require reprogramming for your particular model and make. This can be accomplished by a dealer or a professional shop that has experience with your vehicle. The process is typically very easy and only takes some minutes to complete.
The casing of the fob might also wear out and lose contact with internal components. The casing contains contacts, which are rubber-like components coated in electricity-conducting film that assist with sending the signal to your car. They can wear out over time or even snap completely. A simple replacement casing can bring back the functionality of your device.
Sometimes your key fob needs to be reprogrammed with the current year model, model, and make of your vehicle. This is a simple solution that you can perform at home or with a professional if you have an extra fob. The procedure is easy and requires only some instructions from the manufacturer's website or the local dealership service center.
It is possible that your key fob needs to be replaced completely However, this is typically more expensive and may require an appointment with a dealer or an independent shop with expertise in your particular brand and model. Replacement of a key fob is usually the best option in cases where it's not functioning correctly and you do not want to risk being stranded somewhere. Depending on the make and model, replacements can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 or more.
Replacement
While it is unfortunate that your car's key fob will not always work, it is important to be aware that the majority of issues are relatively easy to fix and can be fixed. One of the most common problems is a dead fob battery that can be replaced quickly and will get you back on the road as soon as you can. It is a good idea to have extra batteries available to be able to replace them if needed.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery of a key fob however, it can be difficult if it's your first time. You will need to be aware of the type of battery that is required for your key fob before you can buy the correct battery. The information is generally available online, however, you should also check your car's owner's manual for clarification. You can purchase the battery at a home improvement store or general store once you have determined what kind of key fob requires. It's a good idea to keep a few of these batteries available, as they are usually extremely affordable. When you receive your new battery, be sure to place it into your key fob correctly. This will ensure that the positive (+) and negative (-) indicators are facing the same direction as they were with your previous battery. After you've inserted your new battery, snap the key fob back together and test it.
If you are familiar with the procedure to replace a key fob's battery is a straightforward task. If you are unable to identify the issue the fob or it does not work after changing the batteries, it might be time to consult an expert to replace it professionally. It's always a good idea to fix your key fob prior to purchasing a replacement. However, this may not be feasible. In these instances it is more economical to purchase one from an authorized dealer.
