10 Simple Steps To Start Your Own Fob Key Repair Business
Key Fob Replacement and Repair
Key fobs on modern cars perform a lot of work and are subject to an awful amount of abuse. In most cases, just a simple repair or replacement is all that's needed to make them functional again.
The majority of fobs are made with flat watch-style batteries that can be found in hardware stores and auto parts retailers. Before you call in a professional, you can do a few DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The battery of the key fob powers the remote you have in your car and in push-to start cars, it can start your engine. As a result, it is crucial to maintain an active, healthy battery. When you're on the move, a dead key fob can be a huge problem. The good news is that a cheap, simple replacement can be made to fix it in a short time.
The most common sign that a key fob battery is failing is the loss of signal strength and range. It is also possible to be noticing that the buttons on your fob don't work or require additional effort to turn on.
car key fob repair near me is available in the auto part section of a major retailer or online. The majority of these batteries are CR2032 and CR2025 and are available in packs of 2 or more. Check out the owner's manual before you purchase the correct battery. Certain vehicles require a certain size or type of battery that's not always readily available at big-box stores So, make sure you know the right specs before you purchase.
The battery is usually found on the back of the key fob. It is removed using the flat-bladed screwdriver, by opening the case. The battery will look like a small coin and be labeled according to its size. Make sure to note the orientation of the plus and minus symbols to ensure that you insert the battery correctly. After the replacement battery is placed in the fob, gently snap both pieces of the fob in place and test all of the buttons to make sure they function.
It's worth noting that, when your key fob is unable to cease functioning even after a battery replacement, it may be deprogrammed. In this instance, you'll need to contact locksmiths for assistance which will cost a bit more than replacing the battery in your key fob.
Whether your fob battery is failing or you're experiencing other issues with your fob's battery, an experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can inspect and repair it to get you back on the road. Make sure you check out the range of services we offer in your area and schedule an appointment now!
Weak Signals
If your key fob doesn't respond to the buttons of the remote it could be a sign that the signaling is not working correctly. Your car and key fob rely on radio signals to communicate, and weak or inconsistant signals can cause poor range and performance.
Examining the battery level of your fob is a good idea because it could affect the sensitivity of your signal. It is also recommended to reset the settings on your fob that can help get the same response from the car. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's manual or a call to the manufacturer's support number is your best source of information.
Other factors can cause weak fob signals, including interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines, other key fobs, wireless communication devices, and even cellular networks can disrupt the RF (radio frequency) signals that your key fob utilizes to connect to the receiver in your vehicle.
Physical damage to your keyfob can also affect the transmission of an RF signal, leading to low performance and a limited range. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked button or bent fob case could interfere with the transmission of signals and cause the remote to not respond.
You can try to resolve the issue by resetting the fob's settings or by replacing the battery. However, if your fob is worn out, it's probably time to replace it altogether.
Don't forget to utilize the spare remote that was included with your vehicle if your primary remote starts to fail. It's worth trying this solution to see if it solves the issue prior to investing in a new one. If not, this might be the best time to contact an experienced auto locksmith. They'll be able to diagnose the problem and suggest the best solution.
Physical Damage
Key fobs can be troublesome from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these issues aren't serious or complex and can be resolved with a few easy steps. It's also a good idea to keep spare batteries or another fob on hand in case your key ever fails to function.
The most frequent cause for the car key fob not working is the battery is dead. These tiny devices are powered by lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries. These are easily replaced and can be found at most pharmacies, food stores and shops which sell electronic items. You can open your fob's casing using an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pull out the battery. Replace the battery, making sure it's not damaged, loose or damaged. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours might require a different type.
If your device loses pairing, it may also cease to respond to buttons. This can happen due to a number of factors, including changing the batteries, however it is typically a simple issue for an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve.
You can try this method to solve your fob issue when none of the other methods work: Disconnect the battery from both the car and the fob for about ten minutes, and then reconnect them in the 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 testing the fob, make sure to keep it clear of water and other dangers. A fob is durable however, you must treat it with care to ensure that it lasts for as long as you can.
If none of the troubleshooting techniques above are helpful you, it may be necessary to replace your key fob. If it's been thrown around, trodden on or subjected to other extreme environmental conditions, it may be beyond repair and in need of an upgrade. Find the most affordable price.
Lost Fob
Even with the best care it's a fact of the road that car key fobs may occasionally stop working. It can be expensive to replace yours when it is lost and especially when you don't have a spare. "You might end up paying $50 or more for a new replacement from the dealer and have it programmed, plus a new mechanical backup which will cost at most another $100," says Mel Yu who is 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 an insufficient battery. If you are familiar with how to replace the battery, or if the owner's manual contains instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't work, you'll need to call an expert.
A locksmith will be able to help you find your lost fob, or get it replaced. They'll also have an idea of the reason your fob stopped functioning in the first place. And if your vehicle is a model older than the one you own and has no built-in smart technology it is possible to save money by finding the key number plate on your current mechanical backup key (it's usually hidden behind a keychain ornament with a decorative design) and recording it in a secure place, such as in your wallet or on your phone. If you need to reprogram the key fob in your car, the locksmith can do it more easily.
If your current key fob is a modern smart key and you want to change it, you'll need to go to a car dealership or locksmith to deprogram it and get an entirely new one and this can be more expensive than replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by rolling-code encryption, which prevents thieves from gaining access to your car. This means that the locksmith needs to have an exclusive programing tool that only the vehicle manufacturer has, which increases the overall expense.
In the majority of instances, you'll have to pay for the entire service at once, which includes the cost of programming a new key fob. This could range from around $20 in certain stores to more than $200 at car dealerships, depending on the car.