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...
How much does a new key fob battery 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 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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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.
Should I reprogramme my key fob after changing the battery?
A remote key fob needs to be associated with your vehicle particularly in order to be secure.
This stops people who drive the same make and model of automobile as you from using their remote to access your car. 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. Do this numerous times in a row
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.
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.
How often should the key fob’s battery 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.
How long will a low battery let my key fob operate?
A normal key fob with a low battery can last up to 4 to 6 years, whereas a smart key fob with a low battery can last for up to 2 to 3 years.
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.