Today’s cars mostly operate with keyless entry systems or push-button start systems. Using key remotes or key fobs has made our lives much easier until they stop working. Then, the vehicle owner gets frustrated. He does not know how to handle these key fob issues. Will a simple battery replacement do, or should one call an automotive locksmith?
Read on further to know when you need to go for a key fob replacement and how to do it.
Ways to check if your key fob is not working
The first thing to do before thinking of a key fob replacement is to check if the fob or remote is truly not working. All it might need is fresh batteries. So, first, replace the dead battery and check. The key fob battery size is 20mm x 3.2 mm. The common fob battery used is CR2032 or CR2025. You can find this 3V battery easily in any hardware store or repair shop.The next thing you can do is to use a backup remote and check. If this backup remote works and your entry remote does not, this means you have to change the remote.
The last thing you can try is to check behind the dashboard for loose wires.
If all these seem fine but the problem persists, then you have to opt for a key fob replacement. Contact a reputable locksmith for this job as it needs skill and perfection.
Know what else could be wrong with the key fob
Key fob issues are many, not just key battery or loose wires. Check for the following before you call an auto locksmith.
Inspect the battery terminal contacts. Are they broken? If the battery connector terminals are loose, you must solder them back. If you do not have the tools, it is best to call a locksmith for repairing the broken battery contact.The other thing that could be wrong with the key fob is the rubberized buttons. The buttons may come out loose and have to be soldered back. They may not pop out or always be in a buried state. Last, of all, misaligned buttons can prevent your fob from working. You can handle some of these like depressed buttons or misaligned buttons. Remove them, clean them, flex them, and put them back in place. But for soldering the buttons or other issues, it is better to call the locksmith.
Ways to reprogram a key fob
Having tried all the above tips, you can try to reprogram the key fob. To do this, get into the car and insert the ignition key. Do the start-stop procedure several times till you hear a chime. Now press the lock or unlock button on the key remote till you hear a second chime. Now, your fob will work again.If the above method fails, try this one. Insert the ignition key and pull it out. Do this 6 times within 10 seconds. If your car accepts this method, your car’s lights will flash both inside and outside. Now, insert the key and turn it into accessory mode. Now, the hazard lights will flash. This means your key fob is good to use.
You have tried all the above tips but none work. The only thing to do is to call a skilled locksmith to replace the key fob. Before you do this, check if the car’s warranty and insurance cover the key fob replacement fully or partially. Next, always get a spare fob made along with the replacement.
Most car dealers charge a fixed amount for fob programming. So, see. if you can get 2-3 fobs programmed at the same time to reduce your programming costs considerably.
Getting a fob replacement done from a skilled locksmith can is cheaper than going to a dealer. Always call a reputable auto locksmith like Chicago Car Keys Locksmith for key fob replacement and other car repairs.