The loss of your car keys can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. It's a smart idea to keep a spare key fob and/or battery handy.
Smart keys activate a proximity sensor to unlock the doors and start the engine. They can typically only be programmed at the dealership.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Key fobs have made locking and starting cars easier, but they can also be a hassle when the battery goes bad. This is a common issue that a lot of people encounter at some time but it doesn't need to be a major issue with some simple tricks up your sleeve.
One of the most obvious signs that your key fob is in need of an upgrade in its battery is if it no longer lights up when you press one of the buttons. This is an important feature to pay attention to, as in the event that it ceases to function and you are unable to access the key fob, you won't be able unlock the doors, open the trunk or start your vehicle without a car key.
Another indication that your key fob is going to die is if it begins to take a while to respond after pressing one of the buttons. This could be because the battery is getting old and not sufficient power to work all of the buttons. Keep an extra battery in your wallet, so you can replace it if this occurs.
If your fob's key is dead you can open it manually with the mechanical key that is stored within. Some keys are found in the fob itself however others are located under the handle cover on the door or in a slot on the dashboard. If you're not sure where to look, consult the owner's manual or search the internet for "how to extract the mechanical key from a (year make model) fob" and you'll find a wealth of details and videos.
If you have an electronic key, use a small screwdriver to pry the key fob open to gain access to the battery. Be careful not to scratch anything else. Once you've removed your old battery, you can simply insert the new CR2032 3V battery and ensure it is installed with the positive side facing upwards just like the original one.
Locked Out
There are several options to ensure that you don't get locked out, but it's crucial to know the location of your car and have a plan. If you have a physical car key you can use it to open the door (or trunk, depending on your vehicle). Consider signing up to the automaker's app, registering for roadside assistance, or leaving an extra car key with a person you are confident.
A dying or dead car battery is one of the most frequent reasons for locking yourself out. If the key fob functions intermittently or requires an enormous amount of pressure to function, it's likely that the battery is dying. A quick test with a simple signal reader should diagnose the issue.
The buttons could also be worn out and no longer work properly. It is easy to identify this problem with an inspection of the buttons and usually takes only a few minutes to put the terminals for the button into. A few dollars spent on the replacement battery will save you the hassle and expense of contacting a locksmith to come out and replace your key fob.
Other reasons your key fob might stop working include being out of range of sensors or being "pickpocketed". The problem can be quite annoying, regardless of a dead battery or because someone took your key and tried to use it for their own vehicle.
Most modern vehicles have an option that allows the driver to unlock the vehicle by using the door lock button located on the dashboard of the interior even if the key fob not in the range of the sensor. If the vehicle doesn't have a keyhole in the door, a lot of manufacturers install hidden keyholes beneath the trim panels that can be opened using the standard key. Look for a small opening close to the handle of the vehicle or on the exterior of the door to locate keys. If you can't find them, check your owner manual for more information or search for a solution on the manufacturer's website.
Key Fob Issues
The key fob is a complicated piece of equipment that has numerous delicate and delicate components that are difficult to repair or replace. They are typically made to last, but it is possible that they can be damaged or lose their function. This could require a replacement or reprogramming from the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. A spare remote can help you avoid an unexpected key fob issue.
Batteries are the main cause of the key fob that does not function. Replacing the battery is a quick and affordable solution. The issue could be more serious, like an inoperative button or contact.
A key fob is made up of a circuit board with a rubber button cover with tiny pads that conduct electricity and batteries. There are several different kinds of batteries, but the majority are lithium-ion coin cell batteries. These are available in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. Changing the batteries is not difficult, but be careful not to damage the delicate circuits.
If a new cell isn't able to fix the problem then you can take out the keyfob and then open it to conduct a thorough inspection. Check for signs of corrosion or other damage to the battery's terminals and contact points. Clean the battery terminals and contact points with Isopropyl Alcohol or Methylhydrate. Soldering them back to their original position can help restore their functionality. You may also bend the little metal fingers that connect to the battery on the circuit board a bit.
Another possibility is that the battery you bought was not the correct one for your key fob. Key fobs are designed to fit certain sizes, voltages and mAh capacity batteries. If you use the wrong battery, it will not only cause it to fail to charge, but could also stop it from transmitting strong signals or powering internal switches properly. Check key fob repair near me of the old battery or the owner's guide to determine the type of battery you need.
You will need to bring your fob to an auto locksmith in order to get it changed. They can tell whether the issue is related to your key fob or the car's electronic systems or locks.
Key Fob Replacement
When you need a new car key fob, a dealer is usually the only choice. The fob is equipped with transponders, which transmit the code that controls the lock and ignition systems. It emits a unique code when pressed, which the immobilizer in your car recognizes. The vehicle may not start if you misplace your keys or 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 to learn that the average cost of replacing the fob that is keyed is between $200 to $400. If your insurance company requires a $500 deductible, the cost could quickly add up.
It's a lot easier than you think to change a car key fob. Most of the time it's just an issue of replacing its battery. Older keys (usually those made in the mid-1990s or earlier) utilize a small battery, referred to as a the CR2032, which you can buy online or in most big-box stores. The battery can be changed by using a flat-bladed, thin screwdriver or fingernail. Remove the old battery, and then replace the new one. Be sure to align the battery correctly and make a note of the + and markings on the case. Reassemble the fob shell and test the remote buttons to make sure they work.
In the case of an electronic key that is malfunctioning keys, some have an electronic slot that can be used to open the doors and also start the car. But, it depends on the make and model of your vehicle. Some cars have a slot that is behind or beneath the door handle, and others require that you press an option to open the slot.
If you don't wish to spend a fortune at the dealership, you could look into the services of a locksmith. Certain locksmiths will be able to replace the key fob for you and program it, whereas others will only offer replacement keys for your specific model. Alternately, you can purchase an alternative key fob from an online retailer such as Batteries Plus, where you can purchase everything for up to 50% less than an auto dealer.
