Electronic Car Key Repair Near Me
Losing your car keys can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. It's a good idea have an extra key fob and/or spare battery on hand.
Smart keys utilize proximity sensors to open doors and also start engines. These keys are usually only programmable at the dealership.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Key fobs have made locking and starting cars much simpler however, they can become frustrating when the battery is damaged. This is a problem that a lot of people encounter at some point however it doesn't have to be a major problem with a few tricks in your sleeve.
One of the most obvious signs that your key fob requires a new battery is if it is no longer glowing when you press one of the buttons. This is an important feature that you should be aware of, because if it stops functioning it will not be able unlock the doors, open the trunk or start the car without a car key.
Another indication that your key fob is likely to die is if it starts to take a while to respond after pressing one of the buttons. This can be because the battery has aged and is no longer able to deliver enough power to operate the buttons. Keep a spare battery in your wallet, so you can replace it in the event that this occurs.
There are some things you can do if your key fob battery is dead and the first step is to open it by hand using the mechanical key stored inside. Some of these mechanical keys are stored in the key fob, whereas others are located in the cover for the handle or dashboard slot. If you are not sure where to begin searching, you can refer to your owner's guide or go online to search "how to remove the mechanical key from a (year-make-model) fob". You'll find plenty of helpful information and videos.
If you have a mechanical key, use a small screwdriver and pry the fob of the key open to access the battery. You'll want to be careful when doing this so that you don't hurt anything else during the process. After removing the battery that was used, replace it with the new CR2032 battery, with the positive side facing upwards.
Locked out
There are several options to ensure that you don't get locked out, but it's important to know the location of your car and have an idea of what to do. If you have a physical car key you can use it to open the door (or trunk, based on the model of your car). You should also consider signing up for an automaker app account, registering to roadside assistance or leaving an extra key with someone who can help you in a pinch.
A dying or dead vehicle battery is one of the most common reasons to lock yourself out. If the key fob only works intermittently or requires a lot of pressure to work it's likely that the battery is failing. The problem can be diagnosed by using a simple signal-reader.
The buttons could also be worn out and no longer function properly. It is easy to spot this problem with an inspection of the buttons and it usually only takes a few minutes to solder the button terminals into place. A few dollars invested in an extra battery could save you the time and cost of having a locksmith come out and replace your key fob.
Other reasons your key fob might be out of sensor range or being "pickpocketed". If it's because of the battery being dead or someone else taking your key and trying to use it on their own vehicle, the resulting malfunction can be extremely annoying and, often, difficult to fix without a professional.
remote key repairs have a feature which allows the driver to open the vehicle by using the door lock button located on the interior dashboard if the key fob is not within the range of the sensor. Many manufacturers install hidden keyholes under panel trims to allow entry into the vehicle even if it doesn't have an actual keyhole. Look for a small hole close to the handle of the vehicle or on the exterior of the door to find keys. If they aren't there look in your owner's manual for more information or search for the answer on the manufacturer's website.
Key Fob Issues
The key fob is a specialized piece of equipment, with many delicate and sensitive parts that are difficult to fix or replace. They are typically well-made, but it is possible that they can lose their functionality. This could require a replacement or reprogramming from the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. A spare remote in your possession can save you from the hassle of a key fob that has a sudden issue.
Batteries are the most common reason for a key fob that does not work. Replacing the battery is an easy and cost-effective solution. However, the problem could also be more serious such as a faulty contact or worn-out button.
A key fob has the circuit board, the button cover is made of rubber with tiny pads that conduct electricity and batteries. There are many different kinds of batteries but most contain lithium-ion coin cell batteries. These batteries are sold in supermarkets, pharmacies, and home improvement shops. The process of changing batteries isn't difficult, but you must be careful not to damage the delicate circuits.
If a new cell doesn't fix the problem, you can remove the keyfob and then open it to conduct a thorough inspection. Look for evidence of corrosion or damage to the battery's contacts or terminals. Clean them with Methyl Hydrate or Isopropyl Alcohol. The process of re-soldering them in their place could make them functional again. You can also bend the tiny fingers of metal that contact the battery on the circuit board slightly.
The battery you purchased may not be the appropriate one for your key fob. Key fobs are designed to fit specific sizes, voltages and mAh capacities of batteries. If you use the wrong battery, it will not only fail charge but also prevent it from sending strong signals or operating its internal switches. Make sure you check the markings on the old battery or in your owner's manual to see whether you can determine what kind of battery your key fob needs.
If your key fob isn't functioning, you'll have to bring it to an auto locksmith or your dealership to have it reprogrammed to work with your vehicle. They can identify whether the issue is with your key fob or with the car's electronic systems or locks.
Key Fob Replacement
If you're in need of a new car key fob, a dealership is usually the only option. The fob has an electronic transponder that transmits the code to operate the lock and ignition systems. It also emits a distinct signal when it's pressed which the immobilizer in your vehicle recognizes. Your vehicle may not start if you lose your keys or if the battery in the fob goes out.
Dealerships have the necessary equipment to reprogram most fobs, however, it can cost lots of money. CR contacted dealers and found that the cost to replace the average key fob ranges from about $200 for a basic model to over $400 for more sophisticated models. If your insurance company requires a $500 deductible it could be a quick grow.
It's a lot easier than you think to change the car key fob. A dead fob can be fixed by replacing the battery. Older keys, usually those that were made in the mid-1990s or earlier are powered by a tiny CR2032 battery that can be found on the internet or at many big-box retailers. These are easy to change with a small flat-bladed screwdriver or your fingernail to pry apart the two halves of the fob to access the battery. Remove the old battery, and then put in the new one. Make sure you align the battery correctly and make a note of the + and – marks on the case. Reassemble the fob shell and test the remote buttons to ensure they function.
Some key fobs come with a mechanical key slot inside which allows you to open the doors of your car and start the engine in the event that the electronic key is not working. It's dependent on your car's make and model. Some have the key slot located under or behind the door handle; others require you to press the fob to open the trunk and reveal the key slot.
If you don't wish to spend a lot of money at the dealership, you can try the services of a locksmith. Some can replace the key fob and also program it for you, however some may only offer key replacements for your specific model. You can also purchase an alternative key fob from an online retailer such as Batteries Plus, where you can get everything done for up to 50% less than at an auto dealer.