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Car Key Fob Repairs Today's key fobs do a lot more than unlock and start cars. However, the added complexity could cause expensive repair costs in the event that one of them malfunctions. It's good to know that a majority of fobs are powered by flat-watch-style batteries which can be easily replaced at home. It is possible that a simple reset will make your fob work again. Battery Replacement A dead battery is the main cause of a key fob not working. This is a simple repair, and is worth trying before you go spending money on a new key fob. Take your car to an auto parts store or hardware retailer that sells button cell batteries and purchase an alternative. 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 gently break the sides to access the battery. You'll typically need a small screwdriver or another tool that has a flat, thin blade. It may be helpful to look for a notch on the bottom of the fob which you can use to put your tool in between. You might also want to look for small pieces that may be loosened while working. Install the new battery in the same manner as you removed the previous one. Make sure the positive (+) side is facing upwards towards the buttons and that the negative (–) side of the battery is aligned with the markings inside the battery compartment of your fob. Test the fob to see whether it is working by pressing the button. If it doesn't work, there could be a problem in your vehicle that requires to be repaired or replaced by a professional. Certain key fobs require specific tools to open and close, and the connections inside may be delicate and susceptible to corroding. In these instances you should consult a specialist in your car or dealer may be the best option. If you're looking to replace batteries, you should be gentle and follow the specific instructions in the owner's manual. You may be able to find a similar battery at a discounter or a big-box retailer but you'll have to consult your owner's manual to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle. Replacing the Internal Key To guard against theft, many key fobs come with an electronic key inside. When the battery in the fob goes out, a blank key is left behind and can be used to open trunks and doors. In some cases it is possible to start certain vehicles. A majority of people do not realize that they can avoid a trip to the dealership by recharging the fob batteries. The flat watch-style batteries are used in the majority of modern fobs. key car repair are easily found in hardware and auto parts stores. Choosing the right type of battery is crucial however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry, causing the fob to fail much earlier. If the problem continues to persist after replacing the battery, it could be an indication that something else is wrong in your vehicle. Check your owner's manual to determine if there's an option to reset the fob and bring the fob back to factory-setup. If this fails, you'll need go to a dealer or a shop independent that specializes in vehicle-security systems and key fob programming. Fobs can also fail because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are typically located close to the steering wheel or in the dashboard. They transmit signals to enable you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. If you're required to move closer and closer to your car to get it to work, there's a good chance the transmitter is failing. It may be required for a professional to open the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually do the job however some fobs come with complicated release mechanisms that require a specific tool or specialized equipment available only through a dealer. This is a job that should be performed by a certified mechanic to avoid damaging the fob and yourself. Reprogramming the Key Often a non-functional key fob simply requires a new battery. Since these batteries are inexpensive and readily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's an excellent first step prior to buying an entirely new car key fob. Alternately, you might be able to program the fob yourself by following the steps. The process is different for different vehicles brands, so it's essential to refer to the owner's manual and research the specifics of your particular model. One key fob might require the ignition to be switched on when programming. One key fob could require the key to be inserted multiple times. The procedure is easy. First, ensure that the new battery is in place. Then, get into the driver's seat and shut all doors EXCEPT for the driver's side door. This will ensure that the new key fob can communicate with the vehicle correctly. Insert the old key into the ignition, then turn it ON however, do not start the engine. Next press the lock button on the fob while looking at the transmission receiver, which is typically situated on the front of the car above the mirror. Within a short time frame the key will signal to the vehicle that it's been programmed by turning off the doors' locks or emitting an emitted sound. This is a challenging procedure, so pay attention to the timing and don't press too hard the button. If the key fob won't work after reprogramming it, try replacing the batteries. If the problem persists you might want to check with your local locksmith or dealer. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment to reprogram your car's fob or create a new one if needed. Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs at around $200-$250, based on the vehicle. But he's had to turn away customers with European models due to the fact that he doesn't have the expensive equipment required. Fortunately, most aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but it's always best to check with the dealer of your choice first to determine the price. How do I get a brand new fob If your key fob cannot be fixed, you could need to buy a new one. Based on the model and make, an auto locksmith or dealership may be able to help. The dealership will likely be the most expensive option for a fob replacement, but they will also have all of the necessary tools and software needed to programme your vehicle properly. Many independent locksmiths offer a new car key fob at a much lower price. It's a good idea to try to reset your current device before you decide to buy another one. The owner's manual should outline the correct method of reset. This is usually an orderly press that reset the factory program. You should also look over the owner's guide and warranty information to see whether you can obtain an alternative fob for your key. If your car's warranty is still active or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper-to-bumper you could be eligible for a reimbursement on the cost of a replacement fob. The process of getting a fob can be simple enough however, finding the right place to have it done isn't easy. You might want to visit the dealer for this service if are driving a brand new car and you want peace of mind knowing that your keyfobs are working correctly. If you're looking for a more affordable alternative, it's possible to find a locksmith who will offer the same service at less cost. If you're not confident handling this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith can be a good option. They're trained and equipped to change or reprogram keys for cars of all kinds, and can do so quickly. Locksmiths can also come to your office or home, which is convenient for many. They can even cut and program keys on-site when you've lost them, which is ideal for those who don't like to leave their cars unattended.