15 Of The Best Twitter Accounts To Learn About Car Key Fob Repair Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs of today do a lot more than unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can result in costly repairs if it breaks.

It's a good idea to know that most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, that can be replaced at home. You may find that a simple reset is enough to allow your fob to function again.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason why the key fob ceases to function is because of the battery being dead. It's easy to solve and is worth a try before you purchase a replacement fob. You can purchase an additional button cell battery at your local auto part retailer or hardware store If you own one. 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 remove and replace the battery inside your fob.

Most fobs come with two halves that snap together -- you'll need to gently pry the sides apart to access the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or some other tool that has a flat, thin blade. It may be helpful to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob that you can put your tool in between. You might also want to look for small pieces that may come loose while you work.

Once you have the new battery, insert it the same way that you removed the previous one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards toward the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the marks inside the battery compartment of your fob.

You can push a button to test the fob. If it doesn't, there could be an issue with your car that requires a specialist to fix or replace.


Certain key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts may be brittle and easily corroded. In these cases the best solution is to speak with a specialist or a dealer. When replacing a battery, be gentle and follow the owner's guide. You might be able to find a similar battery at a discounter store or a big-box retailer, but you'll need to check the owner's manual to ensure that it matches your car.

Replacing car key repair service

To guard against theft, many key fobs are equipped with an electronic key inside. If the battery inside the fob fails and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind, which can be used to open trunks and doors. In certain cases, this key can even start certain vehicles. Most people don't know this however they could avoid from a trip to the dealer by simply replacing the fob's battery. The flat watch-style battery is found in the majority of modern fobs. These batteries are easily found in hardware and auto parts stores. It is crucial to choose the right type of battery. A wrong battery can harm the circuitry, causing the fob's failure much sooner.

If the issue persists after replacing the battery, it could be an indication that there is something else going on with your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to see if there's an option to reset the fob and restore the fob to factory-setup. If that doesn't help, you'll need to go to a dealership or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming.

Fobs may also fail due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually built into the dashboard or near the steering wheel, and they transmit signals that allow you to open and start your car with the fob. If you notice that you're required to move closer and closer to your vehicle in order to make it work, there's a great chance that the transmitter isn't working.

A professional may need to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is usually enough to suffice, but certain fobs require a specific tool or special equipment that can only be found at a dealership. It's best to have a certified mechanic do this job so that you don't accidentally break the fob or cause injury to yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working just requires a new battery. Because they are cheap and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, this is an excellent first step prior to purchasing a new car key fob.

You can also change the programming of your key fob on your own if you follow the steps below. This process can vary between automobiles, so refer to the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. One key fob could require the ignition to be turned on while reprogramming. Another key might require the key to be removed and inserted multiple times.

The basic procedure is simple. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle in a proper manner. Then, place the old key back in the ignition and switch it to the ON position, but don't start the engine. Next press the lock button on the fob, while aiming it at the transmission receiver, which is typically located in the front of the vehicle above the mirror. Within a brief time the key will signal to the vehicle that it's being programmed by turning off the doors locks or emitting a chime. This process can be tricky so it's essential 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 using new batteries. If the issue is still there, you may want to visit your car dealer or locksmith. A professional will have all the tools and equipment to reprogram the car fob or design a new one if necessary.

Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs for around $200-$250, depending on the car. But he's had to turn away customers with European models due to the fact that there's no equipment they require. Fortunately, many aftermarket fobs can be programmable but it's always best to talk to a car dealer first to find out what the cost is.

A New Fob

If your key fob is simply damaged beyond repair, you could need to get a new one. Depending on the model and make, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive alternative for replacing a fob However, they'll have the necessary tools and software to programme your vehicle properly. Many independent locksmiths offer a new car key fob at a much lower price.

Before you rush to get an entirely new device, it is a good idea to try resetting your current device. The owner's manual will outline the proper procedure for reset, which is usually just the pushing of a button that reset the original programming.

It is also recommended to check your owner's guide and warranty information to determine whether you are eligible for a replacement key fob. If your car is still under warranty or you have a car-insurance policy or auto club membership that includes bumper-to-bumper protection, you may be able to receive some reimbursement for the cost of an entirely new fob.

Finding the best where to purchase the fob you need can be difficult. If you own a new car and want the assurance from knowing that your key fobs are in good condition, you may prefer going to the dealership to get this service. If you're looking for a cheaper alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith who will offer the same service at an affordable cost.

If you aren't comfortable handling this type of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a great choice. They are trained and equipped to repair or replace car key fobs of all types and do it quickly. In addition, a locksmith can often come to your office or home to complete the task, which can be very useful for certain people. They can even cut and program keys on-site in case you've lost keys, which is ideal for those who don't like to leave their cars unattended.