The Top Reasons Why People Succeed In The Car Key Fob Repair Industry Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today do a lot more than unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can lead to expensive repair bills when it fails.

The good news is that the majority of fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You may even find that a reset will bring it back to life.

Battery Replacement

The most common reason the key fob ceases to function is because of an inoperative battery. This is a simple repair, and is worth a try before you spend money on a new key fob. Simply drive lock key repair near me to an auto parts store or hardware retailer that sells button cells and choose a replacement. You can also refer to the owner's manual (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to get specific instructions on how to replace and open the battery in your fob.


The majority of fobs have two halves that snap together- you'll need to gently pry the sides apart to access the battery. You'll need a small flat-bladed screwdriver, or a different tool with a thin blade. It might help to look for a notch along the bottom of the fob which you can place your tool between. It is also advisable to watch out for tiny pieces that could break loose while working.

Once you have your new battery, place it the same way that you removed the previous one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing up towards the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned with the markings inside the battery compartment of your fob.

Test the fob to see if it works by pushing a button. If it doesn't work, there could be a problem in your vehicle that needs to be repaired or replaced by a professional.

Certain key fobs require special tools to open and close them, and the contacts inside can be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases, a car specialist or a dealer could be the best choice. If you need to replace a battery, try to be gentle and follow the instructions specifically in your owner's manual. You might be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter or a big-box retailer however, you'll need to check the owner's manual to make sure that it matches your car.

Replacing the Internal Key

To protect against theft, the majority of key fobs are equipped with a mechanical key hidden inside. When the battery in the fob dies, it leaves behind a blank internal key that can unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases start certain vehicles). Most people don't know this however they could save themselves from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob's battery. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are readily available at auto parts stores and hardware shops. Using the correct type of battery is crucial, however. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry and lead to the fob to fail much earlier.

If you try replacing the battery, and the issue is still there it could be an indication that something else is happening with your car. If you have an owner's manual and you're not sure, try to determine if a reset procedure is available to restore the fob's factory programming. If this doesn't work, you'll have to visit a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.

Fobs can also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. They are typically located close to the steering wheel, or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to allow you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. You may have to move closer to the car to get it to work.

A professional might need to open the case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver will usually get the job done however, some fobs have complicated release mechanisms that require a specific tool or specialized equipment that is available only at a dealer. It's best to have a qualified mechanic perform this task so you don't damage the fob or cause injury to yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that is not functioning simply needs a fresh battery. They are easily available in home improvement and pharmacy stores and are cheap. This is a good way to start before buying a new key fob.

You may also be able to re-program the fob by following the steps. This process varies between vehicle makes, so it's important to consult your owner's manual and study the specifics of the model you own. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be turned on while reprogramming it. Another might need the key to be removed and inserted several times.

The general procedure is very easy. First, make sure the new battery is in place. Close all doors, except the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle correctly. Then, place the old key back in the ignition and switch it to the ON position, but do not start the engine. Then press the lock button on the fob, while aiming it at the transmission receiver, which is typically situated on the front of the vehicle 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 the sound of a chime. This procedure can be difficult, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and not to over-press the key button.

If the key fob won't work after reprogramming it, try replacing the batteries. If the problem persists you might want to visit your local locksmith or dealer. A professional will have all the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car fob or design a new one, if required.

Genesky claims he is able to program newer fobs between $200 and $250, depending on the vehicle. Genesky has been denied European models rejected because he lacks the expensive equipment required. Luckily, the majority of aftermarket fobs are programmable, but it's always best to talk to an auto dealer first to determine what their price is.

Finding a New Fob

If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you may need to purchase an entirely new one. Depending on the brand and model, a dealership or an auto locksmith may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive choice for a replacement fob but it also has the tools and software required to program your car properly. Many locksmiths in independent shops provide a new car key fob at a much lower price.

It is a good thing to try to reset your current device before you decide to buy an entirely new one. The owner's manual should explain the proper procedure for reset, which is usually just a series of button pushes which restores the factory settings.

You should also check the owner's manual and warranty information to see whether you are eligible for an additional key fob. If your car is under warranty or you have a car insurance policy or auto club membership that includes bumper-to-bumper coverage, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of an entirely new fob.

Finding the best place to get a fob can be a challenge. It is possible to visit the dealer for this service if you are driving a brand new car and want to be confident that your key fobs are functioning properly. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option it is possible to find a locksmith independent who can offer the same services at a much lower cost.

If you're not confident handling this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a good option. They are skilled and equipped to replace or reprogram all kinds of car key fobs and they can often accomplish the task in a short time. In addition, a locksmith can often come to your home or office to do the job which can be extremely useful for certain people. They can even cut and program keys on-site when you've lost keys, which is ideal for those who do not want to leave their vehicles unattended.