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...
Do you need to reconfigure your key fob after changing the battery?
A remote key fob needs to be specifically matched with your car in order to be secure; otherwise, someone with a car of the same make and model as yours could use their remote to unlock yours. You’ll need to reprogram the fob if changing the batteries has erased this connection or if it was somehow disrupted in order for it to once again recognize your automobile.
Standard programming sequence
Your key fob can typically be reconfigured by following this typical procedure:
Instead of starting and then returning to the locked position, turn the key into the run position. Repeat this multiple times.
You’ll typically hear a chime or other sound when you’ve cycled the key enough times. At that point, you can push the lock or unlock button on your key fob to hear another chime.
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.
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:
1. Find the little button on your key fob to start. This is typically found on the fob’s backside.
2. The button should be pressed and held for around 15 seconds.
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.
What happens if the battery in my key fob dies while I’m driving?
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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How much does a replacement battery for a car key cost?
These batteries typically cost $10 or less, however some fobs need two. Since it just takes a few seconds, battery specialist shops and dealers frequently change the battery without charge.
What occurs when the battery in your key fob runs low?
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.
What happens if your key fob breaks?
- Use the mechanical key to unlock the door after you get it. If your door doesn’t have a key slot, it’s likely concealed beneath the handle cover. To access the key slot, carefully remove the handle cover by using the key.
- On your key fob’s back, search for a little sliding button. You can slide the key fob cover off or click a button to do so. To get it to release, you might need to use your fingernail and a little force.
Now that you’re inside, here’s how to start the car with a dead key fob:
- Check the steering column for a physical key slot if neither of these approaches succeeds (some Mazda models have this feature). To start the car, place the mechanical key within the keyhole.
- Some vehicles have a secret key fob slot that can be used to start the engine. For instance, the backup slot is located inside the cup holder in some Ford models. Your fob will fit perfectly in the slot. Use the push button start as usual after inserting the dead key fob into the holder.
- Close the key fob after inserting the mechanical key once more.
- Press the START button with the key fob. Instead than pressing the button with your finger as usual, push the key fob against it. Many manufacturers utilize this backup device to make sure the car can start even if the key fob is dead.
How can I tell if the battery on my VW key fob is low?
Many key fobs have a tiny LED light that turns on when one of the buttons on the fob is pressed. If the LED light is completely dark, either the fob’s battery is dead or the fob is experiencing some other issue. You can use a voltmeter to check the voltage of the fob battery if you already have it out.
Can I replace the battery on my own car key?
Your key fob’s battery can be changed, and it’s simpler than you would think. A new battery and a little flat-tipped screwdriver are all you require.
How do I find out which battery my key fob uses?
Open your fob to find the battery your automobile key fob uses. There will probably be an engraving that starts with CR followed by a string of digits if the item contains a battery. Check your owner’s manual or search online for your car’s make, model, and year without a battery or engraving.
Will changing the battery on my key fob make it work again?
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. A key fob replacement or even automobile door lock repair may be necessary if it stops operating after a battery change.
How do I know if changing my key fob battery will fix my car key?
When the key does not function under any conditions, it is likely that the car key fob has a dead battery. On all door locks, all buttons have the same lack of effectiveness. When buttons are pressed, no lights illuminate, suggesting that no signal was transmitted. The backup fob, however, functions flawlessly.
What do I do if my key fob is not working after a battery change?
Before you replace the automobile remotes if your key fob still won’t work after a battery change, make sure your locks are operating properly. Additionally, make sure you didn’t unintentionally deprogram your keychain.
Can you fix a key fob not working after a battery change?
Although replacing the remote’s batteries might be the quickest repair for the problem, this is by no means your only option. Check to see if the key fob or the vehicle is the root of your issue. After determining the root cause, correct or change the damaged components.
How often should the battery in my key fob be changed?
Car key fobs are so practical that it’s simple to ignore them. But did you realize that regular maintenance is required for your key fob? Batteries for key fobs should be changed every three to four years, though this will depend on how frequently they are used and how well they are made.
You’d wish you had taken better care of your key fob if it were to abruptly cease working while you were far from home. Avoid being stranded and having to pay for a tow because your key fob isn’t working properly. Here are some red flags that could indicate that it’s time to replace your key fob batteries before it’s too late.
DIY Key Fob Programming
You might be able to program a replacement yourself, depending on the make and type of your vehicle.
The steps for programming a key fob yourself can differ: Owner’s manuals from certain automakers include instructions. In many circumstances, information can be available online. The problem is that in order to complete the process quickly or at all, you might require two functional key fobs.
Therefore, it is wise to acquire and set up an extra remote before you require it. Additionally, it’s a wise move because most used-vehicle buyers, particularly auto dealers, would pay extra for a car that has at least two functional sets of keys or key fobs. Therefore, having a spare key will not only be useful when you need it, but it will also benefit you in the long run.
After-Market Key Fobs
You may be able to buy an after-market key fob via a locksmith or online if your automobile is more than five years old. These sorts of fobs range in quality, but they are less expensive than other options.
Locksmith
If you have the option of receiving your replacement key from a locksmith or the dealership, the latter may be less expensive. Before making a choice, be sure to inquire about prices with your nearby vehicle dealership.