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Key Fob Replacement and Repair The key fobs in modern cars are very efficient and are subject to a lot of abuse. Often a simple repair or replacement is all you need to get them working again. Most fobs utilize flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to find in auto parts retailers. Before you call in an expert, try some of the DIY fixes. Dead Key Fob Battery The battery in the key fob's remote powers your remote in your car, and in push-to-start cars it will start your engine. Therefore, it is critical to maintain an efficient, functioning battery. A dead key fob can be a major problem when you're traveling. The good news is that a simple, inexpensive replacement can fix it quickly. The loss of range and signal strength are among the most frequent indications that a battery on a keyfob is failing. It is also possible to notice that the buttons on your fob do not function or require any effort to be activated. A new key fob can be found in the auto part section of a major retailer or online. Typically, they are CR2032 or CR2025 batteries that are available in packs of two or more. Check out the owner's manual before you decide on the best battery. Some cars require a particular size or kind of battery that's not always available at big-box stores Be sure to know the specifications prior to you buy. Typically the battery is placed in the back of your key fob. It can be removed by prying open the case with a flat-blade screwdriver. It will usually resemble the shape of a small coin, and be labeled with the battery size. Make sure to note the way the plus and minus symbols are positioned to ensure that the battery you are replacing is positioned correctly. After the battery has been replaced and the fob is closed, gently snap the two pieces of the fob back together, and test the buttons. If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, it may have been deprogrammed. In this instance it is likely that a locksmith will be required to assist you. This is more expensive than replacing the key fob's battery. Whether your fob battery is dying or you're having other issues with your fob's battery An experienced mechanic like one from YourMechanic can check and repair it to get you back on the road. Make an appointment to look over all of the services we provide in your area. Weak Signals If you notice that your key fob isn't responding to the buttons on the remote, it could be an indication of a problem with signaling. Radio signals are used to communicate between your car and the key fob. Inconsistent or weak radio signals can lead to poor performance and a limited range. One of the first things to determine is if your fob's battery is insufficient since this can greatly affect the sensitivity of your signal. Resetting the settings on the fob could also help restore a more constant response. The process will vary from vehicle to vehicle. The owner's guide or a call to your manufacturer's support line is your best guide. Other factors can cause weak fob signals, including interference from other devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob. Power lines and 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 inside your vehicle. Additionally, physical damage to your key fob could also interfere with the transmission of RF signals which could result in a decrease in range and performance. A blown fuse, a damaged or cracked button, or a bent case of the fob may all affect the signal transmission and cause the remote not to function properly. You can try to resolve the issue by resetting the fob's settings, or by replacing the battery. If your fob has become old and worn out, it might be time to replace it. Don't forget to remember that if you have a spare key fob that comes with your vehicle, this can be used as a replacement for the primary remote in the event that it begins to fail. It's worth trying this option to see if it solves the issue prior to investing in an entirely new one. If not, this might be the best time to contact an experienced auto locksmith. They will be able to identify the issue and suggest the best solution. Physical Damage It's not uncommon for key fobs to have problems from time to time. Luckily, the majority of these issues aren't complicated or a major issue and can be fixed with some simple steps. It's recommended to keep spare batteries or an additional fob in case one of your keys ever stops working. The most frequent reason for car keys not working is a dead battery. These tiny devices rely on tiny lithium-ion button or coin batteries to function. They can be replaced easily and are available at most pharmacies, food stores and shops that sell electronic products. You can remove your fob's shell with an screwdriver that has a flat-head and gently pry out the battery. Check to see if key repair or damaged and then insert the new battery. Most fobs require batteries that are CR2032. However, yours may require a different type. Your fob might also stop responding to buttons if it loses its connection to the car. This could be due to a number of factors, such as changing the batteries, but is typically a simple issue to get an auto Locksmith or your local dealer to resolve. You can try this method to solve your fob issue in the event that none of the above methods work: disconnect the battery from both the fob and the car for about ten minutes, and then reconnect them in the opposite order. This can force a restart within the system and, in some instances this will fix the problem without doing any of the other steps. While you're experimenting with the fob, ensure to keep it out of water and other potential damage sources. A fob can be pretty sturdy, but you need to treat it with care when you want it to last as long as possible. If all of the suggestions above do not help, it may be time to replace your key fob. If it's been dropped or tripped on, or subjected to other environmental hazards, it could be damaged beyond repair and may require an upgrade. If that's the case, make sure to search for a deal before making your final decision. Lost Fob Even with the best of care keys to cars may fail to function. If you lose yours, it could be very expensive to replace it, especially if you don't have a spare. “You could end up paying $50 or more to get a new replacement from the dealer and have it programmed, as well as an additional mechanical backup which will cost at most another $100,” says Mel Yu who is an automotive analyst at Consumer Reports. A weak battery is one of the most frequent reasons for a keyfob's device to stop working. If you know how to change the battery, or if your owner's manual contains instructions, try it yourself. If that doesn't solve the problem, it's time to call in an expert. A locksmith will be in a position to assist you in finding the lost fob or have it replaced. They'll also have an idea of why your fob was not functioning in the first place. If your car is older and does not come with smart technology however, you can save money by recording the number plate of your mechanical backup key. It's usually hidden behind an ornamental keychain. This can make it easier for a locksmith to reprogram a brand new key fob for your car should you need to do it. If your current key fob is a modern smart key it will require a locksmith or a dealership to deprogram it before getting a new one created which is more expensive than simply replacing it. Modern key fobs are protected by encryption using rolling-codes which stops thieves from getting access to your car. And that means locksmiths need an exclusive programing tool that only the car manufacturer has, which increases the overall cost. In the majority of instances, you'll need to pay for the entire service at once, which includes any costs to reprogram a new key fob. Based on the car the cost can range from around $20 at certain stores to $200 or more at a dealership for cars.