The Hidden Secrets Of Fob Key Repair

· 6 min read
The Hidden Secrets Of Fob Key Repair

content  and Repair

Modern car key fobs are utilized a great deal and are often misused. In most cases, just a simple repair or replacement is all you need to make them work again.

Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style battery, which can be found in auto parts and hardware stores. Before calling an expert, try some of the DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

The battery of the key fob powers your car's remote, and in push-to-start cars it will start your engine. It is therefore important to keep a functioning healthy and a good battery. A dead key fob can be an issue for anyone traveling. The good news is that a simple, affordable replacement can fix it quickly.

The loss of range and signal strength are the most common signs that a keyfob battery is failing. You might also find that the buttons on the fob don't work or require additional effort to be activated.

You can often find an updated key fob battery in the auto parts section of a large box store or on the internet. Typically, they're CR2032 or CR2025 batteries and are available in packs of two or more. However it's best to read the owner's manual before shopping for the right battery for your vehicle. Certain vehicles require a particular size or type of battery, which isn't always available at big-box stores. Make sure to verify before you buy.

Typically the battery is situated on the back of your key fob. It can be removed by prying the case open using a flat-blade screwdriver. It is usually shaped like an ordinary coin and will be labelled with the battery's size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols to ensure that you place the new battery properly. After the battery has been replaced, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together. Then test the buttons.

If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, it could be deprogrammed. In this case you'll need to call an expert locksmith and it will cost you a bit more than replacing the key fob battery.

If the battery in your fob is dying or you're having other issues with your fob's battery, an experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can examine and fix it to get you back on the road. Set up an appointment to review all of the services we provide in your local area.

Weak Signals

If your key fob isn't able to respond to the buttons of the remote it could be a sign that the signaling system is not working correctly. Radio signals are used to transmit information between your car and the key fob. Weak or inconsistent radio signals can lead to low performance and limited range.

One of the first things you should determine is if your fob's battery is low since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings on the fob can also help restore a more regular response. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Your owner's guide or a phone call to your manufacturer's support line is the best source of information.

Other factors can cause weak fob signals, such as interference from other devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines as well as other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can interfere with the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob uses to connect to the receiver inside your vehicle.

Furthermore, physical damage to your key fob can hinder the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in performance and range. A damaged or blown fuse, a broken or cracked button or bent fob case can all affect the transmission of signals, causing the remote to fail to respond.


There are a few simple steps you can follow to try and fix the problem of weak signals from your fob, for example, resetting the fob's settings or changing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn out, it might be the right time to replace it.

Don't forget to make use of the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. Try this method first to see if it can solve the issue prior to purchasing another remote. In this instance, it might be an appropriate time to consult an auto-locksmith professional. They will be able to identify the issue and suggest the best solution.

Physical Damage

Key fobs can be troublesome occasionally. Fortunately, most of these issues aren't difficult or complicated and can be resolved with some simple steps. It's a good idea also to keep spare batteries or another fob in case your key stops working.

The most frequent reason for a car key fob not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. They can be replaced and can be purchased at most pharmacies and grocery stores. You can remove your fob's case using a flat head screwdriver and gently remove the battery that is in there. Ensure that it is not loose or damaged and then put in a new battery. Most fobs utilize CR2032 batteries. However, yours may require an alternative kind.

Your fob might not be responding to buttons after losing its connection with your vehicle. This can happen due to a number of factors, including changing the batteries, however it is generally simple to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to fix.

If none of the solutions above work, you can try this method: disconnect the battery from the car and fob for a short period of time and then reconnect them in a reverse order. This could trigger a restart within the system and, in some instances, this alone will fix the problem without doing any of the other steps.

While you're experimenting with the fob, be sure to keep it away from water and other potential dangers. The fob is quite durable, but it's important to take care with it if you want it to last as long as possible.

If all of the suggestions above don't help, it might be time to consider replacing your key fob. If yours has been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other extreme environmental conditions, it could be damaged beyond repair and in need of an upgrade. Find the best deal.

Lost Fob

Even with the best of care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs may sometimes cease to function. If you lose yours, it could be a huge expense to replace it--especially in the event that you don't have spare. "You might end up paying $50 or more to purchase a new replacement from a dealer and get it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu an automotive analyst with Consumer Reports.

A weak battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob's device to cease to function. You can try changing the battery on your own when you know how, or consult the owner's manual. But if that doesn't fix the problem, it's time to get help from an expert.

A locksmith is in a position to assist you in finding your lost fob or get it replaced. A locksmith will likely know the reason your fob stopped working in the first place. If your vehicle is an older model with no smart technology built-in You can save cash by locating the key number plate on your existing mechanical backup key (it's typically hidden behind a decorative keychain ornament) and storing it in a secure location, such as your wallet or on your phone. This will make it much easier for the locksmith to reprogram the new key fob to your car if you ever need to do it.

If your existing key fob is a modern smart key it will require a car dealership or locksmith to deprogram it before getting a new one made, which can be more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by encryption using rolling-codes that prevents thieves from getting access to your car. This means that the locksmith must have a special programming tool which is only available to the car manufacturer, which increases the cost.

In most instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any charges to reprogram a new key fob. Based on the car it could cost anywhere from $20 at some stores to $200 or more at a car dealer.