Many vehicles utilize key fobs for functions like remote start, keyless locking and unlocking doors, trunk release, and activating alarm systems. Despite all of its benefits and advantages, there may come a time when your key fob starts acting up out of nowhere. You may notice the buttons becoming increasingly unresponsive, the signal growing weaker, or even the key fob completely failing to function.
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There are a few factors that can cause these issues, including programming issues, physical damage to the key fob, or electronic interference. However, we’ll be focusing on key fob failure due to a depleted or damaged battery in this article. We’ll walk you through the common signs of a failing key fob battery, what to do when the battery dies, and the importance of a timely battery replacement.
Let’s get into it!
Failing Key Fob Battery Signs
Be on the lookout for the following signs that can indicate a failing or depleted key fob battery:
It’s Difficult to Lock or Unlock Your Car
If it’s suddenly difficult to lock or unlock your vehicle with your key fob, you may be dealing with battery issues. Weak batteries that impair the key fobs’ functionality can be the cause of these types of inconveniences. This is one of the signs that your battery needs to be replaced.
There’s a Delayed Response
Another sign that your key battery may need replacing is if there’s a lag between pressing a button and the key fob’s reaction. When you compare it to the usual response speed of the key when it was relatively new, there will be a noticeable difference.
There’s a Reduced Signal Range
One of the things that makes key fobs great is the fact that you can remotely control various functions of your vehicle with ease. So, when you notice that your key fob needs to be closer to the vehicle for it to work, it may be wise to check the health of the key battery.
There Are Warning Indicators
There are instances when your vehicle’s dashboard will display notifications related to the key fob. This can be a warning about a low battery or a malfunctioning key fob. Either way, these are obvious indications of fob battery trouble that should be addressed as soon as possible.
It’s Inconsistent
In some cases, your key fob may start exhibiting unpredictable and inconsistent behavior. Sometimes it may work well, sometimes it may lag, and sometimes it may completely fail. These issues may point toward key battery issues as well.
What to Do If Your Key Fob Battery Dies
Use Your Backup Key
Key fobs typically have a mechanical key or physical key as a backup. Cars with push-button ignition usually have physical keys inside the key fob itself. This physical key is intended to serve as an alternative way to manually open your car or truck door, even without the key fob. Specific instructions on how and where to locate the physical backup key can be found in the owner’s manual of your car.
Replace the Old Battery With a New Battery
Sometimes, the best course of action when you notice signs of a failing key fob is to simply replace the dead battery with a new key fob battery. Typically, key fobs have button- or coin-cell batteries. Your local hardware stores likely carry them.
The key-fob battery replacement process involves the following steps: purchase the new batteries, insert them, and test them out. Press the buttons or try to start the engine or ignition and observe if the vehicle accepts the signal.
Seek Professional Assistance
If you don’t have access to a backup key or can’t get your hands on new batteries to replace the old ones, you also have the option of using a professional service. Contact your car manufacturer’s service center or your car dealership and they can provide you with the resources you need.
Alternatively, you can call a trusted locksmith in Oklahoma City, like Okey Locksmith—we’re equipped with the knowledge and necessary equipment to solve your car and key fob issues.
For more information, visit: Locksmith Key Fob Replacement Near Me
Why Timely Key Fob Battery Replacement is Important
It’s important to always have access to your car. Your key fob makes operating your car more convenient, so you should always ensure that it has the power to function as intended. Replacing the battery when it’s depleted can help you avoid car-related inconveniences, like getting locked out of your vehicle or being unable to drive to your appointments.
Timely battery replacement is also a matter of looking out for your own safety because a failing key fob battery can leave you and your family in dangerous situations, such as being stranded in unfamiliar places.
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