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A Trip Back In Time What People Talked About Car Key Fob Repair 20 Years Ago Car Key Fob Repairs Key fobs today can do much more than simply unlock and start vehicles. But that extra complexity can result in high repair bills if one of them breaks. The good news is that the majority of fobs have flat-watch-style batteries that are easy to replace at home. You might find that a simple reset will make your fob work again. Battery Replacement A dead battery is the main reason for a key fob that isn't working. It's simple to fix and worth trying before you spend money on a replacement fob. Simply take your car to a local auto parts store or a hardware retailer that sells button cells and choose a replacement. You can also check your owner's manual (or in the event that you don't have one, YouTube is full of videos from people who show you how to do it) for specific instructions for opening and replacing the battery on the particular type of fob. The majority of fobs have two halves that snap togetherYou'll need to pry the sides apart in order to access the battery. You'll usually need a small screwdriver or a different tool with a thin, flat blade. It might help to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob that you can use to wedge your tool between. You might also want to be on the lookout for small pieces that may fall off while working. Insert the new battery the same way you removed the previous one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing up toward the buttons, and that the negative (-) side of the battery is aligned with the marks inside the battery compartment of your fob. Check the fob to determine whether it functions by pressing the button. If it isn't working, there might be a problem with your vehicle that requires to be fixed or replaced by a professional. Certain key fobs require specific tools to open and close, and the connections inside could be fragile and easily corroded. In these cases an expert in the field or the dealer will likely be the best option. When replacing a battery be gentle and follow your owner's guide. You might be able find a similar battery at a discounter or big-box retailer however, you'll need to consult your owner's manual to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle. Replacing the Internal Key The majority of key fobs have an actual mechanical key however, it's hidden within the fob to keep it from being stolen. When the battery in the fob dies, it leaves behind a blank internal key that is able to unlock doors and trunks (and in some cases, start certain cars). A majority of people don't realize they can avoid a trip to a dealership by replacing the fob's batteries. Most modern fobs have flat watches-style batteries that can be found at hardware stores and auto parts shops. It is important to use the correct kind of battery. The wrong kind can damage the electronic circuitry, which can cause the fob to fail sooner. If you try replacing the battery, and the problem persists it could be an indication that something else is happening with your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if there's a reset procedure that can restore the fob to the factory program. If this isn't working, you'll need go to a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in security systems for vehicles and key fob programming. Fobs may also malfunction due to malfunctioning transmitter receivers. These are usually located close to the steering wheel, or on the dashboard. They transmit signals that allow you to unlock your vehicle and start it using the fob. You may have to move closer to the car in order to make it work. A professional might need to open the fob's case to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually do the job, but some fobs have complicated release mechanisms that require a specific tool or specialized equipment that is available only at a dealership. This is a job that should be done by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself. Reprogramming the Key A key fob that is not functioning simply needs a fresh battery. Because they are cheap and easily available at pharmacies and home improvement stores, it's an excellent first step prior to buying a new car key fob. You can also reprogram your key fob by yourself by following a few basic steps. The process is different for different vehicles manufacturers, so it is important to consult your owner's manual as well as research the specifics of your model. One key fob might require that the ignition switch be switched on when programming. Another key might require the key to be removed and inserted several times. The procedure is easy. Make sure that the battery is securely in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob is communicating with the vehicle in a proper manner. Put the old key in the ignition, turn it ON, but don't start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob towards the receiver of the transmission. This is typically located on the front above the mirror. Within a short time frame the key will signal to the vehicle that it's been programmed by cycling the doors locks or emitting an emitted sound. This is a difficult procedure, so pay attention to timing and don't over-press the button. If the key fob does not work after reprogramming, try using new batteries. If the issue is still there, you might want to check with your local dealer or locksmith. A professional locksmith will have the tools and equipment needed to reprogram your car's fob or make an entirely new key if needed. Genesky says he can usually program newer fobs at around $200-$250, based on the model of vehicle. But he's had to turn away customers with European models due to the fact that there's no equipment required. Fortunately, most aftermarket fobs can be programmable but it's always best to check with the dealer of your choice first to determine the price. A New Fob If the key fob you have cannot be repaired, you may require an entirely new one. Based on the model and make, an auto locksmith or a dealership may be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a replacement fob However, they'll have all of the necessary tools and software to program your car correctly. If you're looking for a cheaper option, a number of independent locksmiths will be able to provide you with new car keys at a lower cost. It is a good thing to try to reset your current fob before you make the decision to purchase another one. The owner's manual should outline the correct method of reset. It is typically a series button presses which restores the factory settings. It's recommended to check your owner's manual and warranty information prior to deciding where to go for a key fob replacement. If your vehicle's warranty is still in effect or you have an auto club or car insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could qualify for a reimbursement of the cost of a replacement fob. Finding the best location to purchase a fob can be a challenge. If you own a new vehicle and you want the security with knowing that your key fobs are in good condition, you might be better off going to the dealership to get this service. If you are looking for a more affordable alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will offer the same service for less cost. A professional locksmith is a great option if you're not comfortable doing this kind of work. They are certified and equipped to replace or reprogram the majority of car key fobs, and often, they can accomplish the task in a short time. g28carkeys.co.uk can also come to your house or office, which is convenient for many people. They can even cut and program keys on-site when you've lost keys, which is great for those who prefer not to leave their cars in the dark.