What's The Reason You're Failing At Car Key Fob Repair Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today are more than just a way to unlock and start cars. But that extra complexity can cause costly repairs when one of them fails.

The positive side is that many fobs have flat-watch-style batteries that are simple to replace at home. It is possible that a simple reset can bring your fob back to life.

Battery Replacement

The most frequent reason the key fob ceases to function is because of the battery being dead. It's a simple fix and worth trying before you spend money on a replacement fob. Simply drive your car to a local hardware or auto parts retailer that stocks button cells and choose an alternative. You can also consult your owner's guide (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) for specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery inside your fob.

You'll need to gently pry off the sides of many fobs in order to access the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or some other tool that has a flat, thin blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob that you can use to wedge your tool between. You may also want to watch for tiny pieces that could break loose while you work.

Insert the new battery the same way as you removed the previous one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing up towards the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned correctly with the markings in the battery compartment of your fob.

Press a button to test the fob. If it fails, it may be a problem with your car that needs to be fixed or replaced by a professional.

Certain key fobs require specific tools to open and close, and the connections inside could be fragile and susceptible to corroding. In these cases you should consult a specialist in your car or the dealer will likely be the best option. When replacing a battery, be gentle and follow your owner's manual. You might be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer but you'll have to consult your owner's manual to make sure that it's compatible with your vehicle.

Replace the internal key

To protect against theft, the majority of key fobs come with a mechanical key hidden inside. If the battery of the fob fails it leaves behind a blank internal key that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases, start certain vehicles). Most people don't know this, but they can save having to go to the dealership by simply replacing the fob's battery. The majority of modern fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries which are easy to find in hardware stores and auto parts shops. Using the correct type of battery is important however. A bad battery can cause damage to the circuitry and lead to the fob's failure earlier.

If you try replacing the battery, and the problem persists, it could be a sign that something else is going on in your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to see if there's an option to reset the fob and restore the fob's the factory program. If this fails, you'll need visit a dealership or independent shop that specializes security systems for vehicles and key fob programming.

Fobs may also fail because of faulty transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel, or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to enable you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. If you notice that you're required to move closer and closer to your car to get it to work, there's a good chance that the transmitter isn't working.


It may be necessary for a professional to remove the case of the fob in order to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually do the trick, but certain fobs require a special tool or special equipment that can only be purchased at a dealer. It is a good idea to have a certified mechanic perform this task so 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 simply requires a new battery. These batteries are readily available in pharmacy and home improvement stores and are inexpensive. This is a good way to start before buying the new key fob.

You may also be able to program the fob by following the steps. The process is different for different vehicles brands, so it's essential to consult your owner's manual as well as research the specifics of your model. For instance the key fob might require that the ignition be switched on while reprogramming the key. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.

The basic procedure is simple. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Then, get into the driver's seat and close all doors, with the exception of the driver's side door. This will ensure the new key is communicating with the vehicle in a correct manner. Place the old key in the ignition, then turn it ON, but don't start the engine. Then, press the lock button on the fob, while looking at the transmission receiver, which is typically located in the front of the vehicle above the mirror. In a short period of time the key will announce to the vehicle that it's programmed by triggering the doors' locks or generating a chime. This process can be tricky, so it's important to be attentive to the timing and to not over-press the key button.

If the key fob still isn't working, try reprogramming it again with fresh batteries. If the issue persists you should visit your car dealer or locksmiths should be considered. A professional will have all the tools and equipment required to reprogram your car fob, or even create a brand new one if needed.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs at around $200 to $250, based on the vehicle. Genesky has been denied European models turned away because they don't have the equipment needed. Most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always consult your local dealer to find out the price.

Getting a New Fob

If your key fob is simply beyond repair, you may need to purchase a new one. Depending on your vehicle's model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob but it also has the tools and software necessary to program your car properly. For key car repair , many independent locksmiths can provide you with an entirely new car key fob at a lower cost.

It's a good idea to attempt to reset the fob you have before you decide to buy an entirely new one. Your owner's manual should outline the proper reset procedure that is typically a series of button pushes that restores the original programming.

It is recommended to read the owner's manual and warranty information before deciding which place to go for the replacement of your key fob. If your car's warranty still active or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper, you may qualify for a reimbursement of the cost of replacing the fob.

The process of getting a fob can be simple enough however finding the best location to get it done can be a challenge. It is possible to visit the dealer to get this service if you have a newer vehicle and want to be confident that your key fobs work correctly. If you're looking for an affordable alternative, it is often possible to find a locksmith who is independent who can provide the same services for a lower 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 most types of car key fobs and often they can accomplish the task in a short time. Locksmiths is also able to visit your house or office which is convenient for many people. They can even cut and program keys on the spot in case you've lost keys, which is ideal for those who don't like to leave their cars unattended.