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Car Key Fob Repairs Key fobs today do a lot more than unlock and start vehicles. This extra complexity can cause costly repair costs if it breaks. It's a good idea to know that a majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries which can be replaced at home. You may find that a simple reset will bring your fob back to life. Battery Replacement A dead battery is the main reason for a key fob not working. It's easy to repair and worth a try before you invest in the replacement fob. Simply take your car to a local auto parts store or a hardware retailer that carries button cell batteries and pick up the replacement. You can also refer to the owner's manual (or YouTube for videos explaining how to replace the battery) to get specific instructions on how to remove and replace the battery in your fob. You'll need to gently pull away the sides of the majority of fobs to reach the battery. It's usually a screwdriver or a different tool equipped with a thin, flat blade. It may be helpful to look for a groove along the bottom of the fob which you can use to wedge your tool between. You may also want to keep an eye out for small pieces that may fall off while working. Install the new battery in the same way as you removed the previous one. Make sure that the positive (+) side is facing up towards 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 doesn't, you may have a problem with your car that requires a professional to repair or replace. Certain key fobs are difficult to open, and the contacts may be brittle and easily corrosion-prone. In these situations the best choice is to talk to a specialist or dealer. When replacing a battery be patient and follow your owner's guide. You may be able find an identical battery at a big-box store or discounter, however, make sure you read the owner's manual to make sure it is compatible with your vehicle. Replace the internal key To prevent theft, most key fobs have an internal mechanical key that is hidden within. If the battery inside the fob fails it will leave a blank key left behind, which can be used to unlock doors and trunks. In some instances it is possible to start certain cars. Most people aren't aware of this, but they can avoid a trip to the dealership by simply replacing the fob's battery. The flat watch-style battery is found in most modern fobs. These batteries are easily found at auto parts stores and hardware stores. Choosing the right type of battery is essential, however. The wrong type can damage the circuitry, causing the fob's failure much sooner. If key fob repair service try replacing the battery, and the issue is still there, it could be a sign that something else is happening with your vehicle. Review the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if you have a reset procedure that can bring the fob back to the factory program. If this doesn't help, you'll need to visit a dealer or an independent shop that specializes in vehicle-security systems and fob programming. Fobs can also fail because of faulty transmitter receivers. They are usually found close to the steering wheel, or in the dashboard. They transmit signals that allow you to unlock your car and begin it using the fob. If you notice that you're required to move closer and closer to your car to be able to make it work, there's a great possibility that the transmitter is not working. It could be required for a professional to access the case of the fob to replace the transmitter. A simple screwdriver can usually do the trick, but certain fobs require a specific tool or a special piece of equipment which can only be found at a dealership. This job should be done by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the fob is not damaged and yourself. Reprogramming the Key Most of the time, a key fob that isn't working simply needs a fresh battery. These batteries are easily found in both pharmacy and home improvement stores and are cheap. This is a great way to start before buying the new key fob. You can also change the programming of your key fob on your own if you follow some basic steps. This process can vary between automobiles, so refer to the owner's manual and research the model you have. One key fob might require that the ignition switch be switched on when reprogramming. Another key might require the key to be inserted and removed repeatedly. The general process is simple. First, ensure that the new battery is in place. Close all doors, with the exception of the driver's door. This will ensure that the new key fob can communicate with the vehicle properly. Put the old key in the ignition and turn it on, but do not start the engine. Press the lock button while aiming the fob at the receiver of the transmission. This is usually located on the left side, just above the mirror. In a short period of time the key will announce to the vehicle that it's being programmed by turning off the doors' locks or generating a chime. This is a challenging procedure, so pay attention to timing and don't over-press the button. If the key fob does not work after reprogramming, try replacing the batteries. If the issue persists, you may want to visit your local locksmith or dealer. A professional will have all the tools and equipment to reprogram your car's fob or design a new one, if required. Genesky says he's able to program newer fobs ranging from $200 and $250, depending on the model of vehicle. Genesky has had European models rejected because there isn't the equipment needed. The majority of aftermarket fobs can be programmed, but always check with your local dealer to find out the cost. How to get a new fob If your key fob cannot be fixed, you could have to purchase another one. Depending on the brand and model, a dealership or an auto locksmith might be able to help. The dealership is likely to be the most expensive option for a fob replacement however, they'll have all the required tools and software to program your car correctly. If you're looking for a cheaper option, a number of independent locksmiths can provide you with a brand-new car key fob at a lower price. It's a good idea to try to reset your current fob before you make the decision to purchase another one. The owner's manual should provide the correct reset procedure. It is typically the result of a series of button presses which restores the factory settings. It is an excellent idea to read your owner's manual as well as warranty information prior to deciding the best place to get a key fob replacement. If your vehicle's warranty is still in effect or you have an auto club or insurance policy that covers bumper to bumper you could be eligible for a reimbursement of the cost of a replacement fob. Getting a fob is easy enough however finding the best location to get it done can be tricky. It is possible to go to the dealer to get this service if you are driving a brand new car and are looking to feel secure knowing that your key fobs work properly. If you are looking for a more affordable alternative, it is possible to find a locksmith that will offer the same service for an affordable cost. If you aren't comfortable handling this kind of work yourself, a professional locksmith may be a great choice. They are trained and equipped to replace or reprogram the majority of car key fobs, and they can often accomplish the task in a short time. Locksmiths can also visit your office or home which is a great option for many people. They can even cut and program keys on the spot when you've lost keys, which is great for those who prefer not to leave their cars unattended.