My Hyundai Sonata’s key fob isn’t functioning as efficiently as it once did. Is there a way I can unlock my key fob and change the battery without having to buy a new one?
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Without a doubt, you can replace the key fob battery on a Hyundai Sonata by yourself. It’s quite easy to do and can help you avoid having to buy a new key fob. Simply prepare your replacement battery and take the following actions:
- Find the tiny metal button on the back of your key fob by flipping it over.
- Release the metal key by pressing the button.
- Gently turn the key fob apart by inserting the metal key into the tiny keyhole.
- Install the new battery after carefully removing the old one.
- Replace the metal key by pressing the key fob’s two parts back together.
Long-term savings can be achieved by learning how to perform some simple DIY maintenance on your car as well as by installing the Jerry app and comparing prices for the coverage you require to locate the best offers.
In This Article...
Changing the Battery in Your Hyundai Key Fob
The battery in your Hyundai key fob is simple to change. A replacement CR 2032 3V battery is all that is required. They typically cost between $3 and $5 for a pack of 5. Wearing latex gloves is advised because you will be contacting a motherboard during this process, which could result in unintended harm.
- Remove the emergency key from the fob’s base.
- Between the release button and the key slot, insert the key.
- Turn the key until the fob pops open as if you were unlocking a door.
- Open the fob while facing the buttons downward (otherwise they will fall out).
- Remove the barrier and motherboard, then set aside the button-side of the fob.
- Remove the dead battery from its mount using the key.
- Place the + side of the new battery in its bracket.
- Replace the fob’s button-half, motherboard, and barrier.
- Set the release button peg in the appropriate hole.
- Reassemble the fob with a snap.
You’re done now! Press any button to put your Hyundai Smart Key to the test. If all was done correctly, a tiny red light should flash over the unlock button.
How much does a new Hyundai key fob cost?
It’s more likely that you will be allowed to utilize an aftermarket key fob if your automobile is at least ten years old, according to CR’s Ibbotson. Many of these less sophisticated fobs can be configured by the consumer, a local technician, or an automotive locksmith.
Ibbotson advises making sure to phone your neighborhood garage first to confirm that they can do the task, as key-fob programming equipment levels can vary from shop to shop. For instance, a Maryland-based repair shop called Murray’s Auto Clinics informed CR that they are unable to program key fobs for any vehicle with push-button start or keyless entry.
We took our vehicle to M.J. Sullivan Hyundai in New London, Connecticut, where we were charged $120 for programming (one hour of labor), which is what they would have charged us if we had purchased the key fob from them.
Hyundai sent us a laser-cut mechanical backup key for $72.47, bringing the total cost to $272.42 (the car waited at the shop for two days); if we had ordered the key fob through the store, the total would have been $428.92).
For some makes and models, you can purchase a cheap aftermarket fob and program it yourself if your home unexpectedly gains a third driver, such as a teenager.
We purchased a fob from BestKeys from Amazon for CR’s 2008 Chrysler Town & Country minivan. Although it lacks the Chrysler branding on the back, it resembles the two original fobs that came with the minivan when it was new. The uncut mechanical key and internal circuitry were both included in the $14.30 price. (However, we didn’t see the need to shell out the cash to have a locksmith cut that third key.)
Chrysler customers can program a third key fob themselves if they already have two functional ones, just like GM owners can. The owner’s manual contains clear and straightforward programming instructions.
How is a damaged key fob repaired?
The most time-consuming and expensive issue on our list is this one. Essentially, it tells you that there is a problem with your circuit board.
A damaged, broken, or shocked board is frequently beyond repair (just like that Beyonce song).
You’ll need to purchase a new key and have it reprogrammed at a dealership or locksmith. You might have to purchase the key from the dealership in some circumstances.
If utilizing an OEM key is not important to you, you can get a programmed fob from Amazon, such as this one designed for certain GM models:
Each key fob costs about $8. You can have a locksmith program it for you if you take this to them.
How is the Hyundai Smart Key pry opened?
The case ought to open easily. In order to start, look for a little notch or imprint down the side of your key fob if you drive an older Hyundai car. Then, spin the key fob in either way with a coin or flat-bladed screwdriver to gently pry it open from the notch.
Can key fobs be repaired?
While you might be able to repair a damaged fob, there are instances when it is just simpler to replace it. A replacement fob can cost as little as $50 depending on the make and type of your car, while they may be more expensive in other situations and end up costing you a considerable bit.
Can a damaged 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.
Why won’t my Hyundai key turn?
If it isn’t, reopen the case and check to make sure the connections are intact and touching the battery in the proper location. Try reprogramming your Hyundai key fob after that. Hyundai key fob replacement may be necessary if the key fob is still inoperable.
Are key fobs replaced by AutoZone?
AutoZone does offer key duplication services for cars made by Toyota, Ford, Honda, Dodge, GMC, Mercedes, Kia, and other manufacturers. These services include key duplication, transponder keys, key fobs, and vehicle key blanks.
How can a bad key fob be detected?
The majority of modern fob keys can often communicate with a car up to 50 feet away. Many owners of cars, trucks, and SUVs use this feature to lock or unlock their vehicles as they move away from them or as they approach them. However, the fob transmitter’s range and signal power will decrease as the battery ages. It may be necessary to change the batteries if you find that your key remote is not working as quickly as it should to unlock, lock, or start the engine for vehicles with automatic start buttons.
Why won’t my key fob function when I change the battery?
A dead battery is the most frequent cause of a key fob not functioning. Having said that, your keyfob might be having more serious issues. You might require a key fob replacement or perhaps auto door lock repair if your key fob stops operating after a battery change.
Why do key fobs cost so much?
As you can see above, as technology advances, auto keys become more expensive. Simple machines or tools may easily duplicate basic keys and fobs because they don’t have complex mechanics. Modern keys include more sophisticated transmitters, codes, and programming, which increases the cost because duplicating them takes longer and requires more expensive hardware. And finally, if you’re working with a luxury car company, be prepared for increased expenditures.