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Key Fob Replacement and Repair Modern car key fobs are used a great deal and are often abused. Sometimes, a simple repair or replacement is all it takes to make them work again. The majority of fobs are made with flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to find in hardware stores and auto parts stores. However, before calling a professional, try a few DIY fixes! Dead Key Fob Battery The battery for the key fob power the remote feature in your car and, with push-to-start vehicles, allows it to start your engine. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain an active, healthy battery. When you're on the move, a dead key fob could be a major issue. A simple, inexpensive replacement can fix the issue quickly. The most common sign that a battery on a key fob is dying is the loss of signal strength and range. You may also notice that the buttons on your fob do not work or require extra effort to activate. A new key fob can be found in the auto part section of a large retailer or online. They are typically CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are available in packs of two or more. However, it's a good idea to read the owner's manual prior to purchasing the correct battery for your device. Some cars require a specific size or type of battery 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 removing the case. The battery will look similar to tiny coins and be labeled according to its size. Make sure to note the direction the plus and minus symbols are placed to ensure that the new battery is placed correctly. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together. Then test the buttons. It's important to note that if your key fob continues to stop functioning, even after a battery replacement, it may be deprogrammed. In this scenario you'll have to contact locksmiths for assistance, which will cost a little more than simply replacing the key fob battery. YourMechanic's experienced mechanics can repair your key fob in the event that it's damaged or the battery has died. Make sure to look over the range of services we offer in your area and make an appointment today! Weak Signals If your key fob doesn't respond to the buttons on the remote, it could indicate that the signaling isn't functioning correctly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, therefore weak or inconsistant signals can result in poor range and performance. One of the first things you should examine is whether your fob's battery is insufficient since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of the signal. Resetting the settings on the fob could aid in restoring a more consistent response. The procedure varies from vehicle to vehicle, so the owner's manual or a call to the helpline of the manufacturer will likely be your best guide here. Other factors can contribute to weak fob signals, for example, interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency as your key fob. Other key fobs and wireless communication devices can interfere with the signal RF (radio-frequency) signals your key fob transmits to the vehicle's receiver. The physical damage to your keyfob can also interfere with the transmission of radio signal, resulting in low performance and a limited range. A blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or a bent case on the fob could affect signal transmission and cause the remote to respond. There are a few easy steps you can try to and fix the problem of weak fob signals, such as resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. However, if your fob is old and worn out, it's the time to replace it all over again. Lastly, don't forget that if you have an extra key fob that is part of your vehicle, it could be used instead of the primary remote in case it starts to fail. It's worth trying this solution to see if it can solve the issue before you invest in the new one. If not, it could be the right time to consult an expert auto locksmith. They can diagnose the problem and suggest the most effective course of action. Physical Damage It's not uncommon for key fobs to have issues from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these problems are not difficult or complicated and can be resolved with a few easy steps. It's important to have spare batteries or even another fob available in case one of your keys ever ceases to function. The most common reason for car keys not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices depend on tiny lithium-ion coin or button batteries to function. These batteries are easily replaceable and can be purchased in most pharmacies and stores. Open the fob's case with an screwdriver that is flat and gently pull out your existing battery. Make sure car remote key repair near me 's not loose or damaged and then simply pop in a new battery. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours may require a different kind. If your device loses its pairing, it could stop responding to buttons. This can be caused by various reasons including changing the batteries. However, an auto Locksmith or a local dealer will usually be able to solve the issue. If none of the methods above work, you can try this trick: unplug the battery from the car and the fob for a few minutes and then reconnect them in the opposite order. This could trigger a restart within the system, and in some cases, this alone will fix the problem without doing any of the other steps. Keep the fob out of water or other sources of damage while trying out new techniques. The fob is a durable device however, you must take care with it to make it last as long as it can. If the suggestions above do not help, it may be time to replace your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped over, or exposed to other extreme environmental conditions, it could be damaged beyond repair and may require an upgrade. If this is the case, you should be sure to shop around for a deal prior to making a final decision. Lost Fob Even with the best of care it's a fact of life that car key fobs may occasionally fail to function. It's costly to replace yours when it is lost and especially if you do not have an extra. “You might end up paying $50 – $100 for a replacement, and having it programmed by the dealer, plus mechanical backups that could cost another $100,” says Mel Yu an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports. One of the most common reasons for a key fob's device to stop working is a basic problem, such as a weak battery. If you are familiar with how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual contains instructions, try it yourself. But if that doesn't fix the problem, it's time to contact an expert. A locksmith can assist you to find or replace the lost key fob. A locksmith will probably know the reason why your fob stopped working in the first place. If your car is older and doesn't have smart technology built in it is still possible to save money by recording the number plate on your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind an ornamental keychain. This will make it easier for the locksmith to reprogram the new key fob to your car should you require it. If your key fob is an old smart key, it will need to be deprogrammed by a locksmith or dealer. This can cost more than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption which stops thieves from getting access to the car. This means that locksmiths must use a special software program which is only available to car manufacturers, which increases the cost. In the majority of instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any charges to reprogram a new key fob. Depending on the vehicle it could cost anywhere from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a car dealership.