The key fob that you have on your car will be subject to a lot wear and wear and tear. It's crucial to always have a spare key fob in case yours breaks down.
The most frequent issue is the battery being dead. There are many other reasons for why your key fob isn't functioning. Some automakers allow you to change the battery on their own fobs, and the instructions are often available on the Internet.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
A dead battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob that is slow. If you notice that you have to press the unlock button several times before your car responds, or it's unable to lock far away as it used to it's likely time to get a new battery. It's easy to replace the key fob's battery.
Press the unlock button several times to verify that the fob is working. Once you're sure it isn't due to being out of range, you can try some things to revive it. Ensure you have your fob. If there is enough power in the battery, you can activate it by pressing it against the driver's door handle.
Next, make sure that you have the right type of battery, which is embossed on the fob itself. It's usually a button cell, sold by brands like Duracell and Energizer. When you have the correct battery, take out your old one and replace it with the new one. Make sure the positive side is facing up. Snap the fob halves together and test the lock/unlock/start function.
If you want to be sure you're protected you can take the fob to a watch repair shop or a dealer to replace its battery. car key fob repair will probably cost a little more than if you did it yourself but it's best to get someone else to do it to ensure that you don't accidentally damage the circuit board when you're trying to open the key fob to replace the battery.
If you'd prefer to save money, you can buy a CR2032 battery at a hardware store or big box retailer, and follow the instructions in your owner's guide (which is likely to be accessible online as PDFs on the manufacturer's site or at a minimum on YouTube) to replace the fob's battery yourself. This is a simple process that will restore the remote functionality you use during your Springfield trips.
Damaged Buttons
While it may seem strange that the key fob inside your car needs to be maintained, they do. Most of the time, these issues aren't too serious and it can be as simple as replacing the battery. However there are other issues that can occur which might indicate that the key fob is in need of more attention.
The power button could be the reason for your key fob not working or the buttons not working. Cell buttons can get damaged through wear and tear, and the internal components could be damaged or knocked out. There are do-it-yourself kits available to replace power buttons, however working with these tiny and delicate parts can be difficult to say the least. Attempting to replace the power button can also be dangerous since there is a real chance of damaging the internal circuitry.
Some automotive locksmiths have specialized equipment for this type of repair, and they can finish the repair while you are waiting. They can repair the buttons and have them looking like new in just a few minutes.
If you don't want to hire a professional, you can buy key fobs from the aftermarket for a small cost. They're exactly like the original key fob. Certain automotive stores and dealerships will allow you to program them to your vehicle but others do not. Genesky says he can program his fobs with most automobiles manufactured prior to the '90s however he must deny customers with more recent Audi or BMW models due to the fact that he does not have the necessary programming equipment.
Verify the warranty of your vehicle to determine whether it covers the cost of a replacement key fob, or at least some of the cost. This will help you decide whether it's worth spending the money for a repair or a replacement key fob.
Issues with the Circuitry
Your key fob is subject to lots of abuse and stress while you use it, since it is dropped, jostled, and exposed to cold and hot every day. This can cause damage to internal components which include the tiny electronic circuitry which sends signals to the car. Based on how damaged the signals are, they could stop working and hinder you from opening doors or even starting your car.
If you have tried replacing the battery, but it doesn't work, there is a chance that your fob has to be reprogrammed to match the specific model and make of vehicle. This can be accomplished by a dealer or professional shop with experience with your vehicle. It is a straightforward procedure that takes only a few minutes to complete.
The casing of your fob could also wear out and lose contact with internal components. The casing contains contacts, which are rubber-like components coated in electricity-conducting film that assist with sending the signal to your car. They can wear out over time, or snap completely. A replacement casing is an easy solution that can restore your fob to proper functionality.
Sometimes your key fob just has to be changed to the year, make and model of your vehicle. If you have a spare key fob, this is a simple fix that can be accomplished at home or by an expert. The process is easy and involves just the instructions on the website of your manufacturer or your local dealership's service center.
It is possible that your key fob requires to be replaced entirely however this is usually more expensive and may require visiting the dealer or an independent shop that has experience in your specific make and model. Replacement of a key fob is typically the best option if it isn't working correctly and you do not want to risk being stuck somewhere. Depending on the brand and model, replacements may cost anywhere from $50 to $150 or more.
Replacement
Although it's unfortunate that the car key fob does not always work, it is important to be aware that the majority problems are quite simple and can be repaired. A dead fob battery is among the most common problems. It is quickly replaced and get you back on the road in no time. To prevent this issue from happening again in the future, it is best to have spare batteries on hand so that you can replace them when required.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery of a key fob however it can be difficult if this is the first time you've done it. You will need to be aware of what kind of battery is required for your key fob before deciding to buy the correct battery. You can usually find this information on the internet, but it is also useful to refer to the manual of your car if you aren't sure. You can buy the battery at an home improvement store or a general store after you have decided what type your key fob requires. It's a good idea to have several of these batteries available because they are typically extremely affordable. Once you have the new battery, be sure to put it into your key fob in the proper orientation. This will ensure the (+) and (-) signs are positioned in exactly the same way as they did on your previous battery. After you've inserted the new battery, you can then snap your key fob back together and test it to ensure that it works correctly.
Replacing a key fob battery is a fairly simple task, and you can do it yourself If you know how to do it. If you're unable determine what is wrong with your device, or it doesn't work after replacing the batteries, it could be time to contact an expert to replace it professionally. While it is always a good idea to attempt to repair your key fob prior purchasing a replacement, in some cases this is not possible and it may be cheaper to purchase one from a dealership.
