20 Myths About Car Key Fob Repairs: Dispelled
Car Key Fob Repairs Like any electronic device, car key fobs can be prone to issues with their functions. Fortunately, many of these issues are simple to fix. Many hardware stores and websites offer the ability to replace a flat battery in key fobs for as little as $10. Some repairs, however require the assistance of a professional shop or dealer. Dead Batteries The majority of key fobs are powered by batteries, and the most common issue that causes them to stop functioning is an inactive battery. The good news is that this is easy to fix especially if you have spare batteries in the back of your hand. You can find flat watch-style batteries at the majority of auto parts and hardware stores, and they are usually cheaper than you might imagine. You can also open your key fob using an multi-tool to replace the battery inside. However it is more difficult to accomplish and may require assistance from a professional. car key repair is a good idea but there are other things that can happen to your key fob that can't be fixed with a simple new battery. For example, if you notice that you need to be nearer to your vehicle to open it up or start it with the key fob, that is a sign that your key fob has lost its connection to the receiver in your vehicle. This is another problem that can be fixed by resetting your key fob but you will need to go through the owner's manual to find instructions. Some cars also have a key fob that controls the push-button starter, which makes the ignition and engine control available without the traditional key. They are more complicated and are more expensive to replace if damaged or lost. You'll have to visit the dealership to have these fobs reprogrammed. This could cost hundreds of dollars. It is usually possible to have this done by an independent shop who is able to work with your specific make and model. Avoid the temptation of purchasing cheap fobs online, as these can be more expensive and less reliable than fobs made by dealers. You should always consult with local shops to see whether they can take on this kind of job and get a quote prior to signing to anything. Some insurance companies also cover this expense however, it can add up if you have high-deductible insurance. Buttons damaged Car key fobs take quite a beating. They bounce around in pockets, purses and are often dropped on hard surfaces. They also get wet to various levels. This jolting can cause buttons on the key fob to become unresponsive and may require replacement. Another common cause of key fob buttons not working is the batteries are depleted. Fob batteries come in a small coin shape and are simple to replace. The owner's guide for your vehicle should contain information on the type of battery you need and how to replace it. You can find online guides if you don't own the manual for your vehicle. It's important to be careful when opening a key fob, however, because the buttons and circuitry are extremely delicate. Screwdrivers can damage these components, making the problem worse. If you are unsure how to open the key fob, it's usually best to go to a shop that offers this service. They can take off the case and determine what kind of battery it is (usually a flat-style watch battery) before replacing it with a brand new one. Environmental factors and where the fob is stored can also influence how long your batteries last. Storing them in temperatures that are too cold can lead to premature battery death, and the fob may lose its pairing to your car's receiver. Most remotes are able to reset, but it often requires the help of a professional locksmith or a car dealer. If your key fob isn't working after you've changed the batteries and replaced the actuators for the button it could be the right the right time to bring your vehicle to Hillside Auto Repair for a check-up. A trained technician from Hillside Auto Repair will inspect your key fob to determine whether it requires a simple replacement, or changing the programming. If the latter is the case, you may be required to return for a dealership-made fob. This is because certain automakers won't permit other manufacturers to make fobs that are compatible with their vehicles. Unresponsive Buttons If your key fob has gone unresponsive the first thing you should look at is the batteries. The coin-shaped batteries typically cost less than $10 and can be purchased at hardware stores, big-box retailers, and online. YouTube videos and a lot of owner's manuals provide instructions on how to replace the battery. Once this is done, the buttons should work again. The next possible culprit could be a malfunctioning relay, or a different electrical component that is disrupting the communication between the button and the vehicle. If you're still getting a perplexing silence when pressing the page or no buttons, you can try contacting someone who can help you troubleshoot this problem. If the issue remains unresolved It could be time to replace your car's key fob. Keychain-sized remotes are typically made of plastic with buttons that unlock and lock doors, start the car, and trigger an alarm. These keys are also helpful to park your car when you own an older car. If these small devices break down, it can be a major inconvenience, and a loss of security. A lost or stolen key fob could cause problems to start your car, making you open to scammers and thieves. Some drivers might be enticed to buy a cheap replacement key fob on the internet instead of visiting the dealer, but this can be an expensive and risky choice. This is because not all key fobs from the aftermarket can be reprogrammed to their settings. If you have lost a key fob contact your automaker or local locksmith to find out how much it will cost to replace it with a dealer-made one. If you don't want to wait for repairmen, you can go to NAPA Auto Parts, which offers replacement fobs. They have hundreds of different models. These replacement fobs are identical to the original ones and can be reprogrammed at home with a cheap tool. This is a better choice than programming an individual fob. It only takes a few moments and can be completed from the comfort of your garage. Unresponsive Car The car key fob can be used to open doors and to start the engine. It's a handy, high-tech tool. They work by transmitting an electronic signal using specific radio frequency to a receiver in the car that can then determine if the signal sent is the right one. These devices aren't cheap, and it can be costly when they malfunction. This can be particularly frustrating when you are on the road and unable to use your car because of this issue. There are a few ways to address the issue and get back on your way quickly. The first thing you need to do is change the battery. These are usually flat-watch-style batteries that are easily available at a hardware store or auto parts store. It is possible that you don't need any other items to fix the problem. If the problem persists it might be necessary to replace the key fob. Key fobs are a complicated piece of technology, and they're not cheap to replace. Depending on the type of key fob and the year of the vehicle the replacement could cost hundreds of dollars. This could be even more expensive if you have to have it reprogrammed. You can replace a key fob at various locations, including automotive locksmiths and dealerships. The dealership is usually the most expensive option. They may offer a more convenient solution by visiting your home and programming the remote there. It can be frustrating and irritating when your key fob does not work. While this can be a sign of something more serious with the vehicle or with the vehicle itself, it could also be a sign that you need new batteries or that a button has become pressed or is stuck. These simple solutions can be a bit frustrating but will bring you back on the way in a reasonable time. If you are still having trouble, you may want to visit an automotive locksmith for help with a key fob replacement. They can program your new fob so that it is compatible with the vehicle you own.