How To Outsmart Your Boss With Car Key Fob Repair

· 6 min read
How To Outsmart Your Boss With Car Key Fob Repair

Car Key Fob Repairs

Key fobs today can do more than unlock and start vehicles. This added complexity can result in costly repairs in the event that it malfunctions.

It's a good idea to know that a majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries that can be replaced at home. It is possible that a reset can make your device work again.

Battery Replacement

The most common reason a key fob stops working is due to an inoperative battery. It's easy to solve and is worth a try before you purchase an alternative fob. Take your car to an auto parts store or a hardware retailer that stocks button cells and choose the replacement. 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.

The majority of fobs have two halves that snap together -You'll need to break the sides in order to access the battery. You'll need a small flat-bladed screwdriver or another tool with a small blade. It may be helpful to look for a notch along the bottom of the fob that you can wedge your tool between. It is also advisable to watch out for small pieces that may come loose while you work.

Once you have the new battery, place it in the same way that you removed the previous one. The positive (+) side should be facing the buttons and the reverse (-) the markings on the compartment for the battery.

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

Certain key fobs are difficult to open and the contacts may be brittle and easily damaged. In these cases, a car specialist or a dealer could be the best option. If you're looking to replace the battery, make sure to be very gentle and adhere to the instructions specifically in your owner's manual. You might be able to locate a comparable battery at a discounter store or a big-box retailer however, you'll need to refer to your owner's manual to make sure that it's the right one for your vehicle.

Replacing the Internal Key

To guard against theft, many key fobs are equipped with a mechanical key hidden inside. When the battery in the fob goes out and the key is discarded, a blank one is left behind and can be used to unlock trunks and doors. In some cases, this key can even start certain vehicles. Many people don't realize this however, they can save a trip to the dealership by simply replacing the fob battery. The flat watch-style battery is used in most modern fobs. These batteries can be found in auto parts stores and hardware stores. Choosing the right type of battery is essential, however. A bad battery can damage the electronic circuitry, causing the fob to fail much faster.

If you try replacing the battery and discover that the problem persists, it could be a sign that something else is happening with your vehicle. Go through the owner's manual to determine if there's a reset procedure that can restore the fob to factory-setup. If this doesn't help then you'll need to go to a dealership or an independent shop that is specialized in vehicle security systems and 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 that enable you to unlock your car and start it with the fob. It is possible that you will need to get closer to the car in order to get it to work.

It might be necessary for a professional to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver is enough to accomplish the task however some fobs come with complicated release mechanisms that require a special tool or specialized equipment available only at a dealership. It is a good idea to have a qualified mechanic handle this job to ensure you don't break the fob or cause injury to yourself.

Reprogramming the Key

A key fob that is not functioning simply requires a new battery. Since these batteries are inexpensive and readily available in pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's an excellent first step prior to buying an entirely new car key fob.

You may also be able to program the fob yourself by following some basic steps. The procedure may differ for different vehicles, so it is recommended to refer to the owner's manual and study the specific model of your vehicle. A key fob may require that the ignition switch be on when changing the program. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed multiple times.

The general procedure is very simple. Make sure the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle in a proper manner. Place the old key in the ignition, turn it on, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob towards the receiver of the transmission. It is usually located on the left side, just above the mirror. In a short period of time the key will announce to the vehicle that it's been programmed by cycling the doors locks or emitting an emitted sound. This can be a tricky process, so pay close attention to the timing and avoid pressing too hard the button.

If the key fob does not work after reprogramming, try replacing the batteries. If the issue isn't resolved then a visit to the dealer of your vehicle or a locksmith is a good idea. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment to reprogram your car's fob or design a new one if necessary.

Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs for $200-$250, based on the vehicle. Genesky has experienced European models rejected because he lacks the expensive equipment required. Fortunately, many aftermarket fobs can be programmable but it's always best to check with a car dealer first to determine what the cost is.

How to get a new fob

If the key fob you have cannot be fixed, you could have to purchase another one. Depending on the make and model, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob, but it also has the tools and software required to program your car correctly. If you're looking for a cheaper option, a number of independent locksmiths can provide you with new car keys at a lower cost.

Before you decide to purchase a new fob it's an excellent idea to try resetting your current device. Your owner's manual should outline the proper reset procedure that is typically a series of button pushes that restores it to factory programming.

It's an excellent idea to review your owner's manual and warranty information prior to deciding which place to go for an replacement fob for your key. If  Full Statement  is still active or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could qualify to receive a reimbursement for the cost of a replacement fob.

Finding the right where to purchase a fob can be difficult. If you own a new car and would like the security from knowing that your key fobs are in working condition, you may prefer going to the dealership for this service. If you're looking for an option that is more affordable it is usually possible to find a locksmith independent who can offer the same services at a much lower cost.

If you aren't comfortable handling this kind of work yourself A professional locksmith could be a great choice. They are equipped and trained to replace or reprogram key fobs for cars of all kinds, and can do so quickly. In addition, a locksmith will often visit your workplace or home to do the job which is useful for certain people. They can even cut and program keys on-site when you've lost keys, which is ideal for those who do not want to leave their vehicles unattended.