This History Behind Fob Key Repair Can Haunt You Forever

Key Fob Replacement and Repair
The key fobs found in modern vehicles are very efficient and are subject to lots of abuse. Many times just a simple replacement or repair is all that's required to restore them to working order.
Most fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries that are readily available in auto parts stores. Before you call in a professional, do some DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The key fob's battery powers the remote you have in your car and in push-to start cars it will start your engine. It is therefore crucial to keep a functioning and healthy battery. When you're on the go, a dead key fob can be a huge problem. A simple, low-cost replacement can fix the issue quickly.
The most frequent indication that a key fob's battery is dying is the decrease in signal strength and range. You might also be noticing that the buttons on your fob don't work or require extra effort to activate.
You can often find the latest key fob batteries in the auto parts section of a big box store or on the internet. Typically, these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are sold in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you purchase the correct battery. Some cars require a particular size or type of battery that isn't always readily available at big-box stores, so be sure to be aware of the correct specifications before you buy.
The battery is typically located at the back of the key fob. It can be removed with an abrasive screwdriver with a flat blade by opening the case. The battery will appear like tiny coins, and it will be labeled based on its size. Be sure to note which direction the plus and minus symbols are oriented to ensure that the battery you are replacing is properly placed. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together. Then test the buttons.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery, it could have been deprogrammed. In this instance you will require a locksmith needed to help you. This will cost more than replacing the battery of your key fob.
Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob in the event that it is damaged or if the battery has failed. Make sure to look over all of our services available in your area and make an appointment today!
Weak Signals
If your key fob isn't able to respond to the buttons of the remote, it could be a sign that the signaling is not functioning properly. Radio signals are used to transmit information between your car and the key fob. Weak or inconsistent radio signals can result in low performance and limited range.
One of the first things to determine is if the battery of your fob is depleted because this could significantly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can also help restore a more constant response. The procedure may differ from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to the manufacturer's support line is your best source of information.
Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices operating at the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs as well as wireless communication devices can interfere with the radio frequency (radio-frequency) signals that your key fob sends to connect to the vehicle's receiver.
Physical damage to your keyfob can interfere with the transmission of radio signal, resulting in lower performance and less range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked buttons, or a bent fob case can interfere with the transmission of signals and cause the remote to fail to respond.
You can attempt to solve the issue by resetting your fob's settings or by replacing the battery. If mobile car key repair is old and worn, it could be the right time to replace it.
Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that came with your car if your primary remote begins to fail. It's a good idea to try this method to see if it solves the issue prior to investing in a new one. If not, it might be the perfect time to consult a professional auto locksmith. They can determine the cause and suggest the best method of action.
Physical Damage
It's not common for key fobs to encounter issues from time-to-time. Most of these issues are not complex or difficult to fix and can be solved with a few simple steps. It's also a good idea to keep spare batteries or another fob available in case one of your keys ever stops working.
The most frequent cause for the car key fob not working is an inactive battery. These little devices rely on tiny lithium-ion coin or button batteries to function. These batteries are easily replaceable and are available at most pharmacies and grocery stores. You can remove your fob's case using an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pull out the battery. Replace the battery, ensuring that it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs utilize CR2032 batteries. However, yours may require an alternative kind.
The fob may not be responding to buttons if it loses its pairing with the vehicle. This can happen due to a number of reasons, including changing the batteries, however it is typically a simple issue to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealership to resolve.
You can try this method to fix your fob if none of the above methods work: disconnect the battery from both the fob and the car for about ten minutes, and then reconnect them in a reverse order. This can force the system to restart, and in certain cases it will resolve the issue without further steps.
When you're playing around with the fob, be sure to keep it clear of water and other potential damage sources. A fob is durable but you need to treat it with care to ensure that it lasts as long as it can.
If none of the troubleshooting procedures above help you, you may have to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped or trampled upon, or exposed to harsh conditions, it might not be repairable and will require a replacement. If this is the case, make sure to search to find a bargain before making your final decision.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact in life that car key fobs will sometimes stop working. If you lose yours, it can be extremely expensive to replace it, especially if you don't have a spare. "You could end up paying $50 or more to get an alternative from the dealer and then have it programmed, as well as a new mechanical backup, which could cost you at least another $100," says Mel Yu who is an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.
A weak battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob to stop working. If you are aware of how to replace the battery, or if the owner's guide has instructions, you can try it yourself. If this doesn't resolve the problem, you need to get help from an expert.
A locksmith will be able to help you find the lost fob or have it replaced. They'll also probably have an idea of the reason why your fob stopped functioning in the first place. And if your vehicle is an older model with no built-in smart technology it is possible to save cash by locating the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and storing it in a safe place--such as your wallet or on your phone. This will make it much easier for a locksmith to reprogram the new key fob for your car should you require it.
If the key fob you have is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit a car dealership or locksmith to deprogram it and get a new one created, which can be more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by encryption using rolling-codes, which prevents thieves from getting access to the car. This means that locksmiths need an exclusive programming tool that only the vehicle manufacturer has, which increases the overall cost.
In the majority of cases, the entire service will be billed at once. This includes any costs to reprogramme a new keyfob. Based on the car it could cost anywhere from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a car dealership.