5 Qualities That People Are Looking For In Every Fob Key Repair Key Fob Replacement and Repair

Modern car key fobs are used a great deal and are frequently abused. Many times an easy repair or replacement is all that's required to bring them back into good working order.

The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries that can be found in auto parts retailers. Before calling an expert, try some of the DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

The key fob battery powers the remote function in your car and, with push-to-start vehicles it allows it to start your engine. This is why it is essential to keep an active, healthy battery. When you're on the go, a dead key fob can cause a lot of trouble. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can fix it quickly.

The loss of range and signal strength are the most common indicators that a battery in a keyfob is dying. You might also notice that the buttons on your key fob aren't working or require additional effort.

A new key fob is available in the auto part section of a big retailer or on the internet. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. Check out the owner's manual before you shop for the right battery. Some cars require a specific size or type that isn't always readily available at big-box stores. Be sure to check before you buy.

The battery is usually found 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 look like an ordinary coin and be identified according to its size. Be sure to note which way the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the new battery is properly placed. Once the battery replacement is placed in the fob, gently snap both pieces of the fob together. Then test car key repair service to ensure they work.


If your key fob doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this instance you will require a locksmith required to assist you. This will cost more than just replacing the battery in the key fob.

Our skilled mechanics at YourMechanic can repair your key fob if it's damaged or the battery has failed. Be sure to check out all of our services in your region and book an appointment now!

Weak Signals

If you notice that your key fob isn't responding as you would expect to the buttons on the remote, it could be an indication of a problem with signaling. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, so weak or inconsistent signals could result in poor performance and range.

One of the first things to check is whether or not your fob's battery is insufficient since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob could also aid in restoring a consistent response. The procedure differs from vehicle to vehicle, so your owner's manual or a phone call to the helpline of the manufacturer is probably the best resource here.

Other factors, including interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency, can also affect weak signals. Power lines and other key fobs wireless communication devices, and even cell networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.

Finally, physical damage to your key fob can affect the transmission of RF signals which can result in poor performance and range. A blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or a bent case of the fob could all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote not to respond.

There are a few easy steps you can take to try and fix the problem of weak fob signals, such as resetting the fob's settings, or replacing the battery. If your fob is old and worn, it could be the right time to replace it.

Lastly, don't forget that if you have an extra key fob that is included with your vehicle, this can be used instead of the primary remote in the event that it starts to fail. Try this method first to determine if you can fix the problem before purchasing an entirely new remote. If not, this might be the best time to consult an experienced auto locksmith. They will be able to identify the problem and recommend the best course of action.

Physical Damage

Key fobs can have problems from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these issues aren't difficult or complicated and can be fixed with some simple steps. It's recommended to have spare batteries or another fob available in case one of your keys ceases to function.

A dead battery is the most common reason why a key fob in a car is not working. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. These are easily replaced and can be found in most pharmacies, grocery stores and shops that sell electronic products. The fob's case can be opened using an screwdriver that is flat and gently remove the battery that you have. Replace the battery, ensuring that it's not damaged or loosened. Most fobs utilize CR2032 batteries. However, yours might require a different kind.

Your fob might also stop responding to buttons when it loses its connection to the car. This could be due to many factors including changing the batteries. However it is possible to fix the issue with an auto Locksmith or a local dealer can usually fix it.

If none of the strategies above work, try this trick: disconnect the battery from the car and the fob for a short period of time and then reconnect them in the opposite order. This can force the system to restart, and in certain cases, this will fix the issue without any other steps.

While you're experimenting with the fob, be sure to keep it out of water and other possible damage sources. The fob is tough however, you must take care of it to make it last for as long as you can.

If none of the troubleshooting procedures above work you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown or trampled upon, or exposed to harsh conditions, it might not be repairable and will need a replacement. Shop around to find the best deal.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care keys to cars may fail to function. It can be expensive to replace yours if you lose it, especially in the event that you don't have an alternative. "You might end up paying between $50 and $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by a dealer, as well as a mechanical backup that will cost another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is one of the most common reasons for a keyfob to cease to function. If you are aware of how to replace the battery, or if your owner's manual has instructions, you can try it yourself. If that doesn't work you'll have to call an expert.

A locksmith is able to help you find your lost fob or get it replaced. They'll also have an idea of the reason why your fob was not working in the first instance. If your car is older and does not have smart technology built in, you can still save money by recording the number plate from your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind an ornamental keychain. If you need to reprogram the key fob in your car the locksmith can do it much more quickly.

If the key fob you have is a modern smart key, you'll have to visit an auto dealer or locksmith to remove it from the system and have a new one made and this can be more expensive than simply replacing it. Modern key fobs are secured by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from getting access to your car. This means that locksmiths must have a special software program that is only available to car manufacturers, which increases the cost.

In most cases, the entire service will be charged at the same time. This includes all costs to reprogramme a new keyfob. It can cost anywhere from $20 in certain stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, based on the car.