Don’t be surprised if your car key fob suddenly stops working, as this is a common issue many drivers face. Typical causes include dead batteries, which usually last between 2 and 4 years, or using aftermarket spare keys that aren’t fully compatible with your vehicle. Additionally, a key fob may fail if it hasn’t been properly programmed to communicate with your car’s system, especially after battery replacement or getting a duplicate key. If you’re searching for a reliable car key fob replacement in Toronto, visit our Professional Car Key Replacement in Toronto page and get back on the road without delay.
Common Reasons for Key Fob Failure
There are a few common reasons why the fob no longer controls the steering wheel:
Dead Batteries
Your keyless remote could have dead batteries, which is another common reason it is not working. The batteries in your remote are not designed to last a lifetime. As a general rule, just keep in mind that a Fob battery lasts 2 to 4 years on average.
Spare Keys Are Used
Your key malfunction issues may be due to using an aftermarket key instead of the original key. Unlike original parts, they aren’t designed to work in concert with your car. The same goes for replacing your car key, unless you use a manufacturer-approved key.
The Car Key is Not Programmed
Your car’s transponder and the transmitter inside the remote communicate with each other to lock or unlock your vehicle. If the key doesn’t work, it probably hasn’t been programmed to your car. Key fobs lose their basic programming when their battery dies. Also, programming may have been interrupted if you recently received a duplicate key or a key lock. For help, check out Car Key Stuck in the Ignition.
Using a Cheap Replacement Key Fob
Sometimes you misplace your car key, and in those circumstances, you’re forced to make a duplicate. The problem with aftermarket keys is that they’re poorly designed, and their electronic components are of inferior quality. Even if you get your car’s key fob programmed, there’s a chance it will stop working after a few days.
Water Damage
Most remote controls and smart keys are not waterproof. Moisture can damage the electronics and render the key unusable. If this happens to you, act quickly: remove the battery immediately and dry the key thoroughly. However, water damage isn’t always repairable.
Key Fob Damage
Electronic components, including chips and batteries, are contained within the key fob. If you drop the remote, it may be damaged beyond repair. The key fob may stop working if there is a problem with the receiver that is inside the vehicle, aside from the transponder. If that happens, you will not be able to lock or unlock the doors, and you will not be able to turn the ignition on.
How to Troubleshoot Your Car Key Fob
Before you consider getting a new fob, there are a number of easy, straightforward steps that might lead you to the problem or fix it:
- The first method is to replace the depleted batteries with new ones. Once the dead batteries are replaced, the remote control should then work, unless there is a different problem.
- If you have changed the battery and the remote still does not work, then use the spare key. If this works correctly, then the problem lies in the key fob, and not with the car system.
- If you have to use the spare key, and the fob does not work, then the receiver and transmitter are usually programmed together, and at this point, you should consult an authorized service center to program the remote key.
- Sometimes radio waves or strong electronic equipment, such as cell towers or underground parking garages, can interfere with the remote’s signal. If the fob doesn’t work in one location but works fine elsewhere, the problem is likely signal interference, not the remote itself.
- If the remote control has been bumped or hit and is not working, then you may have damaged the chip or other mechanisms. In this case, it is best to take the key fob to an authorized service center to test and repair it.
- If none of these suggestions work, the next step is to contact a professional. And if an emergency arises and you need to open your car door, we recommend reading Ways to Unlock Your Car Without a Key in Emergencies.
When to Replace Your Key Fob
If the buttons on the fob are completely dead, the internal electronics are shot, or you dropped the fob in some liquid and it hasn’t worked since, it’s safe to say it’s best to replace the fob. If you have simply misplaced your fob or it has been stolen, you should get another fob reprogrammed to keep your car safe and secure. Sometimes, the fob will still work technically, but doesn’t complete the pairing process, or you find it continuously disconnecting and reconnecting; these are clear signs your fob needs replacement. As a general rule, if a fob is unreliable, don’t wait, because it may fail at the most inconvenient time. Before replacing, you can try troubleshooting, like checking contacts, replacing the battery, or attempting to reprogram it. For helpful tips, see this car remote troubleshooting guide.
Finding a Trusted Toronto Locksmith for Key Fob Repair
If your car key fob isn’t working properly and you’re in Toronto, finding a reliable locksmith is key to getting back on the road. Whether you need reprogramming, repairs, or a car key fob replacement in Toronto, it’s important to choose someone experienced with both standard and keyless entry systems
Since key fob issues often happen at the worst times, look for locksmiths who offer mobile service and can come to your location, whether at home, work, or roadside. Many professionals, like Eastern Locksmith, use specialized tools to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and accurately.
Need a Fast Car Key Fob Fix in Toronto?
Whether you’re stuck at home, work, or roadside, at Eastern Locksmith, we offer mobile key fob services. Our experienced team handles everything from battery replacements to full key fob reprogramming, quickly and professionally.
Cost of Repairing or Replacing a Key Fob
One of the questions we get asked all the time is, “How much does it cost to replace or repair a FOB?” The truth is, the exact price depends on a few factors like the type of vehicle, the FOB model, whether it needs programming, and whether just the battery is dead or the entire FOB needs to be replaced. We’ve tried to answer that question to some extent in the table below.
| Service Type | Description | Approx. Cost (CAD) |
| Key fob battery replacement | For key fobs that just need a new battery | $15 – $40 |
| Button or shell repair | For worn-out buttons or cracked casing | $40 – $80 |
| Reprogramming an existing key fob | Re-syncing a fob that was previously used | $70 – $120 |
| Full replacement – standard vehicles | Includes cutting a new key and programming | $120 – $250 |
| Full replacement – luxury vehicles (BMW, Audi, Benz, etc.) | Smart key systems with advanced security chips | $250 – $450 |
| On-site service (mobile locksmith) | When a technician comes to your location | +$30 – $60 on top of base cost |
Conclusion
Losing functionality in your car key fob is a common but fixable issue. You can try replacing the batteries, checking for signal interference, or reprogramming the key before deciding to replace it. However, when these fixes do not work, contacting a professional locksmith in Toronto ensures proper repair, safety, and full compatibility for your vehicle.
For those seeking quick, reliable help wherever they are, our trusted Mobile Locksmith Services in Toronto ensure you’re never left stranded. No matter the make or model of your vehicle, we will be there for you with troubleshooting or car key fob replacement in Toronto.
FAQs
What to do if my car key fob stops working?
The first and easiest thing to do is to check the remote’s battery and replace it if necessary. Most of the time, this will fix the problem. If replacing the battery still doesn’t work, check and clean the body and buttons. If that still doesn’t work, it’s best to have a reputable locksmith check or reprogram the remote.
Can I replace my car key fob myself?
Yes, you can do it yourself for simple things like changing the battery or cleaning the fob. But if the fob needs internal circuit repair, a complete replacement, or reprogramming, these tasks are specialized and should be done by a professional locksmith to avoid any problems with the car’s security system.
How much does it cost to fix a key fob in Toronto?
The cost of car remote repair in Toronto depends on the type of problem; battery replacement costs $15-40, button or frame repair costs $40-80, and reprogramming costs $70-120 CAD. A full remote replacement costs between $120 and $450 CAD (depending on the vehicle), and mobile service costs an additional $30-60.
Have you ever dealt with a broken car key fob? Share your experience or questions in the comments below. We’d love to hear your story and help out!
