When Is The Best Time To Replace A Car Key Battery?

Jake King • 14 December 2024

Signs You Need Key Fob Battery Replacement

Car key batteries are a necessary component of your car keys. Without the battery, you might have trouble with your key. They are present in most current automobile keys because they offer comfort and safety. Like all batteries, these batteries will need a replacement at some point. 


Unfortunately, most people overlook car key batteries until they stop working, leading to unpleasant and inconvenient situations such as being stuck in an unfamiliar place. Therefore, it’s necessary to know the right time to replace them. 


Lower Signal Range

A common fob has a signal range of 30 to 60 feet. However, if your remote’s battery runs out of power, it will reduce the functional range of your fob.


Have you noticed that your fob now demands you to approach your car more closely than it did previously? Is it no longer sending the signal from the opposite side of the parking lot as it once did?

Your key fob battery is most likely to blame. Please be aware that weather conditions, such as rain, might affect your device’s signal strength.


Inconsistent Clicks

You may have to press the button on your key fob repeatedly before your car receives the signal. When this happens, your battery struggles to gather enough power to function. If this is the case with your key fob, you need to get a new key fob battery quickly.


Some key fobs are merely used to open doors, while others are necessary to start push-to-start engines. Your key fob may be at fault if this component is likewise erratic and takes numerous pushes.


Delayed Unlocking

Although you may only need to click the button once, there is a considerable one or two-second wait before hearing your car unlock. This is another sign that the battery on your key fob is running low.


Some reports claim that when you unlock the car, the headlights may even stop blinking. It may appear harmless today, but you’ll be in big trouble if your key fob suddenly shuts down.

Car Lockout Prevention Tips Every Driver Should Know

by Jake King • 11 January 2025
Develop a Routine: Always check that you have your keys in your hand, pocket, or bag before closing the door or trunk. Use Smart Technology: Some smart locks or digital keys can be accessed through your phone. If this option is available to you, it can provide a backup method for re-entry. That said, you should consider the security implications as well by allowing a secondary method. Have a Spare Key: Keep a spare key in a safe location. Some people choose to carry a spare in their wallet or purse, while others leave one with a trusted friend or family member. If your spare car key is at home, it won't help you unless someone else can retrieve it and get it to you (and they will need a way to enter your home as well). Replace Key Fob & Smart Key Batteries: When we talk about drivers getting locked out of their vehicles, it's often in reference to those who forget their car keys on the car seat or elsewhere in the vehicle. However, it's also possible for the smart key battery to die. Many vehicle manufacturers have backup methods in place to account for this situation. For example, you might have a manual key you can use. In addition, some makes and models can still detect the key fob if you hold it against the engine start / stop button. That said, no one wants to be in this situation in the first place. For reference, key fob and smart key battery life is around 4-6 years and 2-3 years respectfully.

What's the difference between push to start and turn to start?

by Jake King • 4 January 2025
A "push to start" ignition system allows you to start your car by simply pressing a button, while a "turn to start" ignition system requires you to insert a physical key into the ignition and turn it to start the engine; essentially, push to start is keyless ignition where you don't need to physically turn a key, whereas turn to start uses a traditional key that needs to be inserted and rotated to start the car.

What's a transponder in the transponder key

by Jake King • 28 December 2024
A transponder in a transponder key is a small chip that uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to communicate with a car's computer. The transponder chip contains a unique code that allows the car to start only if the correct key is used.

Why Auto Locksmiths are an Essential Support for Car Owners?

by Jake King • 21 December 2024
Have you found yourself in a condition when you have lost your car keys, and everything seemed a mess? Probably you would have. This is why it is important to know whom to turn to in such an eventuality. If you ever face such a situation, then you need an auto locksmith to help you in this condition.  Why you need an automotive locksmith? Such conditions, when you are unable to open your car doors can occur anywhere and anytime without any warning, and there are several reasons for this: You have lost your car keys. Your keys broke off in the lock Your wallet was stolen which had your car keys Your keys are not functioning properly due to some technical malfunction You have accidentally forgotten your keys inside the car Your ignition lock not working And so on.

Key Replacement and Duplication: Ensuring You Always Have a Spare

by Jake King • 7 December 2024
Ever lost your car keys just as you’re about to leave for an appointment? It may be a real frustration, but a simple solution is having a spare key. Don’t have one? No worries! Professional locksmiths are always available to assist you! Automobile locksmiths offer replacement and duplication services to ensure you’re never left stranded. These professionals can create a perfect duplicate of your existing key , whether it’s a traditional metal option or a modern transponder key. This process is quick, and efficient, and can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
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