WMBF – MYRTLE BEACH, SC A key fob is used by millions of drivers to lock and unlock their vehicles.
Keyless entry is a fantastic feature, but you can only benefit from it if you keep the technology up to date.
The little things in life can often mean the most, such as not having to search through your purse for your keys or using your key fob to raise and unlock the back doors so you can load groceries.
But what occurs if the fob breaks down? The key fobs for your car require maintenance just like the vehicle itself does.
When anything breaks down, Gary Freeman, owner of C & G Auto in Myrtle Beach, advised against replacing it right away.
“A replacement fob can be pricey; they can cost several hundred dollars, and once you have a replacement fob, they need to be programmed,” said Freeman.
He advises checking the battery as your first action. If you have to push the remote lock or unlock multiple times before it finally locks or unlocks, that could be a sign that the battery is starting to lose power, according to Freeman.
According to his calculations, the keyless entry remote can be safely stored or hung up anywhere beyond the six to ten feet from which the automobile computer system can read the fob.
According to Freeman, the battery life for the majority of automotive key fobs is three to four years with regular use. Additionally, he claims that the battery life of your fob may be impacted by where you keep it. Freeman advises against hanging the fob near the car or leaving it in the car overnight.
It (the key fob) sends signals continuously, which drains the battery in the key fob and causes an excessive drain on the battery of the car since a computer recognizes that signal as indicating that I’m ready to start, according to Freeman.
According to Freeman, if the key fob malfunctions, the automobile frequently won’t start because the computer system won’t acknowledge that the key fob is present in the vehicle.
The owners’ manual will typically answer any questions you have about it, and almost any auto repair shop can replace that battery, said Freeman.
In This Article...
What is the price of a new VW key?
Replacing your automobile key can be rather expensive. Since many contemporary Volkswagens have keyless ignition and entry systems that utilize key fobs with wireless transmitters and encrypted chips, this is not surprising. It costs a lot to purchase technology of this caliber. Most Volkswagen models will cost you around $300, but some new keys may cost you as much as $350.
Expect your expenses to go up if you manage to lose all of your keys (it happens!). You must now pay the towing fee in order to have your car delivered to our dealership. As you can see, getting new keys can be an expensive affair.
What if the battery in my key fob dies?
This issue has been foreseen by automakers ever since the key fob was created. Nothing will happen if your key fob dies while you’re driving. Simply because the key fob is a locking and starting device only, the automobile will continue to run. The key fob has no influence over the ignition or engine once the automobile is moving.
Even though you’ll need to go to a general store or pharmacy to get the battery, replacing the battery in your key fob simply takes a few minutes if you’re pressed for time.
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Can I change my key fob’s battery?
Replacement Battery for Key Fob Although you might need to use a small screwdriver to pull the key fob apart, most automakers make it rather simple to switch in a new battery. These batteries typically cost $10 or less, however some fobs need two.
Will a dead key fob prevent a car from starting?
If your key fob isn’t detected inside the car, the keyless entry system won’t start the engine. The system probably won’t be able to tell when the key fob is inside the car if it has a dead battery, which will prevent the engine from starting. By pressing down while placing the fob on the start engine button, you can get past this problem. Even though this should enable your engine to start, it is still beneficial to change the fob batteries whenever you have the opportunity.
How can I tell if the battery in my key fob needs to be changed?
Minor issues with your car’s functionality can quickly escalate into major annoyances. For a while, you might be able to ignore a jammed window or a stuck trunk button, but ultimately, these problems will interfere with your obligations.
A broken key fob is one little problem that many automobile owners prefer to overlook. After all, many automobiles come with additional locking mechanisms. Drivers have the option of using their mechanical keys or even keyless access if their key fob breaks.
However, a lot of drivers are unaware that replacing or fixing a broken key fob is a rather simple procedure. Frequently, replacing the key fob battery will restore your handy dandy fob to full functionality.
Don’t wait if you observe any of the following signs that your key fob is failing. For a prompt diagnosis and treatment, get in touch with a nearby auto locksmith:
Symptoms Of A Dying Key Fob Battery:
1. Declining Signal Power
Across the Target parking lot, your truck was unlocked with your key fob. By activating your automobile alarm from your bedroom, you used to startle your neighbor. Now? If the doors open while you’re three feet away, you’re lucky. It may be time for a new key fob battery if you have to approach your automobile from closer than 20 feet in order to unlock it.
2. Abuse of Clicks
A functional key fob should be able to open doors with just one button press. Your key fob might need to be replaced if you find yourself clicking again because you don’t believe the vehicle locked the first time.
3. Unpredictable Results
The temptation to put off mending a key fob that occasionally functions could be strong. However, it’s still a good idea to get the key fob checked out even if you can lock your car 90% of the time on the first try from a regular distance. You could want a fresh battery or updated auto key programming.
A risky key fob is in addition to being frustrating. Your automobile and your belongings may be more vulnerable to theft if you are unable to lock the vehicle with confidence. Luckily, in May 2017, there were roughly 17,500 persons employed as locksmiths and safe repairers. Find one of the thousands of qualified locksmiths across the country who is close by to keep your automobile safe. You may make sure that your key fob functions correctly the first time, every time, with the aid of a mobile automotive locksmith.
Why won’t my VW key turn?
It’s easy to replace the battery in your key fob if it’s entirely dead, but it still needs to be reset if the light is blinking. Only your master key will work for this, but it’s quick and easy to do:
- For one second, press and hold the lock or unlock button. The car should continue to be locked.
- You may unlock and lock your Volkswagen with the master key.
- Your key fob should automatically reset.
Of course, you could need a new key fob if the old one is broken. Fortunately, we can set you up with a new key that has been programmed for your VW at our service center.
Can a key fob be programmed without visiting the dealership?
The programming process is detailed in the owner’s manual for the vehicle, but the vehicle must be present, he added. Be advised that most customer-programmable key fobs, regardless of brand, require two active, functional keys in order to program a third new key without visiting the dealer, according to Yu.
Can I operate a vehicle with a low battery?
You may still operate the keyless remote to shift gears, park, and drive around even when the battery is low. Once the engine is started, the automobile may be effectively operated without the key. Long stretches of time can be spent driving without the remote or key fob.
Will a dead key fob deplete the battery in my car?
We frequently receive inquiries like these at the shop. Yes, it is the correct response. Your key fob can eventually deplete your battery if you keep it in your car when it is not in use. Even when not in use, the key fob continuously transmits a signal to the vehicle, which consumes a tiny amount of electricity. So, if you keep your key fob in your car for a long time, the battery will ultimately die. If you find yourself in this predicament, you might try using a jumper wire or a portable battery pack to jump start your automobile.
Additionally, it may not be a good idea to leave your key fob in your car overnight or even just hanging nearby. The key fob may speak with your automobile if it is too close, which could drain the battery.
What should I do after changing the battery in my key fob?
The majority of people use their key fob to unlock their car doors and trunk. But what occurs if the battery runs out? You might believe that getting a new key fob requires visiting a dealership or a locksmith, but did you know that you can simply reset it yourself?
This is how:
Find the little button on your key fob first. This is typically found on the fob’s backside.
2. For around 15 seconds, press and hold the button.
3. Release the button after 15 seconds, and your key fob should be reset!
The owner’s manual for your car should always be consulted if you have any issues or inquiries.
Simply press and hold the reset button for a few seconds if your key fob has one. Remove the battery cover and press the tiny reset button on the circuit board if your key fob lacks a reset button.
How long does the battery in a key fob last?
The battery in your car’s fob or remote will eventually need to be replaced, just like any other battery. A car fob battery should typically last three to four years. In addition, there are several indicators that will let you know when your fob battery is running low.
Signal strength loss is the initial symptom. The majority of contemporary fobs can communicate with your car up to 50 feet away. But as your battery ages, the signal’s intensity and range will decline. Another indication that your key fob battery needs to be changed is that you are having to push buttons to lock and unlock doors repeatedly.