Key Fob Not Working in Redhill

If your car key fob is not working in Redhill, we can help. Whether the buttons have stopped responding, the car won’t detect your smart key, or the remote only works intermittently, our local auto locksmiths diagnose and fix key fob problems quickly across Redhill and the wider RH postcode area. From simple battery swaps and key fob repair to full key fob programming and replacement, we get you moving again with minimal fuss.

When You Need Help With a Faulty Key Fob

Key fobs fail for a few common reasons. If you’re noticing any of the symptoms below, it’s time to speak with a professional mobile car locksmith:

• Buttons do nothing when pressed, or only work sometimes
• “Key not detected” message, especially with push-to-start vehicles
• Central locking works on the door but not from the remote
• Car won’t start even though the fob is in the vehicle
• Reduced range; you must stand very close to the car
• Red LED on the fob doesn’t light, or flashes unusually
• The key symbol appears on the dash, or the immobiliser light flashes
• The fob was dropped or got wet and stopped working
• You changed the battery and it still won’t respond
• You’ve replaced the fob shell and it now needs re-pairing

Common causes include a dead or weak battery, worn microswitches, damaged circuit boards, desynchronised or corrupted programming, transponder chip issues, or antenna/receiver faults in the vehicle. We deal with all of these daily on popular brands including Ford, Vauxhall, VW, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Toyota, Peugeot, Renault, Kia, Hyundai, and more.

If you’ve lost all keys or your fob has failed completely, we can also provide full car key replacement and fresh car key programming at the roadside.

How We Fix Key Fob Problems

We use a structured, non-destructive approach wherever possible. Our goal is a reliable fix with no damage to your vehicle. In the rare cases where drilling or parts removal is the only safe option (for example, a severely jammed ignition), we explain the risks and get your approval first.

Here’s how our mobile process works:

1. Initial Assessment

• We confirm your vehicle make, model, and year, the symptoms, and whether you have a spare that works.
• We ask where you are in Redhill or the RH area (e.g., Merstham, Earlswood, Reigate, Horley) to dispatch efficiently.

2. On-Site Diagnostics

• Battery check and replacement using quality cells matched to your fob.
• Inspection of the key fob shell, key blade, and internal board for damage or loose components.
• Frequency and signal testing to confirm the remote is transmitting correctly.
• Immobiliser and central locking diagnostics using dealer-level tools via the OBD2 port.
• For specific models, EEPROM and ECU/immobiliser checks to verify coding integrity.

3. Repair Where Possible

• Microswitch replacement, re-soldering cracked joints, and circuit board cleaning if affected by moisture.
• Key fob repair for flip mechanisms, key blade replacement, and shell refurbishment.
• Re-synchronisation procedures to restore communication with the vehicle.

4. Programming and Re-Coding

• Transponder key programming and remote key programming using secure, manufacturer-approved processes.
• Smart key programming and proximity key replacement for push-to-start vehicles.
• ECU/immobiliser programming to pair a new or existing fob where needed.
• Anti-theft key programming checks to ensure your immobiliser remains fully functional.

5. Replacement If Needed

• If the fob is beyond repair, we supply a compatible key fob replacement or complete remote key.
• Laser cut car keys and high-security vehicle keys cut precisely on site.
• Full testing: lock/unlock range, boot release, panic function (if applicable), and engine start on proximity systems.

6. Final Checks and Handover

• Demonstrate correct operation and range.
• Provide guidance on battery care, spare keys, and what to do if issues reoccur.
• Warranty on workmanship and supplied keys/fobs for peace of mind.

Why Choose Our Redhill Auto Locksmiths

• Local and Mobile: Based in Redhill with coverage across RH postcodes, including Reigate, Merstham, Earlswood, Horley, Nutfield, Godstone, Oxted, Dorking, and more. We come to you—home, work, roadside, or car park.
• 10+ Years’ Experience: We’ve solved hundreds of “key fob not working” cases across all major makes and models, including newer 2024/2025 systems.
• Dealer-Level Diagnostics: OBD2 diagnostics, EEPROM key programming, and ECU/immobiliser programming capability for accurate, efficient fixes.
• Insured and DBS-Checked: Public liability insured; technicians are DBS-checked for your reassurance.
• Non-Destructive Methods: We prioritise non-destructive entry and repair wherever possible and explain any rare exceptions before we proceed.
• Warranties and Guarantees: Clear warranty on new keys/fobs and our workmanship.
• All Key Types Supported: Standard remote fobs, flip keys, transponder keys, smart/proximity keys, and push-to-start systems.
• Business and Fleet Support: We also cover vans and commercial vehicles; see our van and commercial locksmith service.

Key Fob Services We Provide

• Key fob battery testing and replacement
• Fault finding for central locking and remote issues
• Key fob repair (microswitches, flip mechanisms, solder repairs)
• Key blade replacement and cutting
• Remote key programming and re-synchronisation
• Transponder and immobiliser coding
• Smart key programming and proximity key replacement
• Complete replacement keys when the original is beyond repair
• Advice on car security upgrades and vehicle security assessment

If your key fob not working is part of a wider problem—like intermittent locking, ignition issues, or a snapped key—we can also help with vehicle unlocking, broken car key, and car lock and ignition issues.

Common Brands and Models We Help With

• Ford: Fiesta, Focus, Kuga, Mondeo, Transit and Transit Custom (remote and proximity)
• Vauxhall: Corsa, Astra, Insignia, Vivaro (flip keys and remotes)
• Volkswagen (VW): Golf, Polo, Passat, Transporter (immobiliser and remote issues)
• BMW and Mini: Comfort access smart keys, keyless entry programming
• Audi: A3/A4/A6 smart keys and proximity systems
• Mercedes-Benz: Remote fob diagnostics and programming support
• Nissan and Toyota: Intelligent Key and Smart Entry systems
• Peugeot, Renault, Kia, Hyundai, Skoda, Volvo, Land Rover, Jaguar, Mazda, Honda, and more

For specific guidance on your make, visit the brands we cover, including dedicated pages for Ford, VW, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes.

FAQs: Key Fob Not Working

Why has my car key fob stopped working?

Most often it’s a weak/dead battery or worn internal switches. Other causes include water damage, a cracked circuit board, desynchronised programming, or an immobiliser antenna fault in the vehicle. We test each possibility on site and confirm the fix.

I replaced the battery but the key fob still doesn’t work. What next?

Some fobs need re-synchronising with the vehicle after a battery change. If the fob was already failing, it may need microswitch repair or reprogramming. We can perform remote key programming and, if necessary, supply a compatible replacement.

My car says “Key Not Detected”. Can you help?

Yes. We handle smart key programming and proximity key replacement. We’ll check the fob, the transponder, and the vehicle’s receiver system. If required, we can re-code the fob using dealer-level equipment via OBD2 or perform EEPROM programming on certain models.

Can you fix a water-damaged key fob?

Often, yes—if dealt with quickly. We can clean the board, replace damaged components, and attempt recovery. If it’s beyond repair, we’ll provide a new key fob replacement and program it to your car.

Can a locksmith make a car key without the original?

Yes. We can create and program a new key even if you don’t have the original. We verify vehicle ownership, then cut and code a new key/fob, often faster and more conveniently than a main dealer.

How long does key fob programming take?

In many cases, 30–60 minutes on site, depending on the vehicle and the issue. More complex immobiliser faults can take longer, but we keep you informed throughout.

Will you damage my car?

No—our approach is non-destructive wherever possible. If an invasive step is unavoidable, we explain why, outline the options, and get your consent first.

Do you cover evenings and weekends?

Yes. We offer emergency support when you need it. If you’re stuck right now, see our emergency auto locksmith in Redhill page or call us.

Next Steps: Quick, Reliable Fixes Across RH Postcodes

Don’t let a faulty key fob derail your day. Our mobile auto locksmiths cover Redhill and surrounding areas such as Merstham (RH1), Earlswood, Reigate, Salfords, Horley (near RH6), Nutfield, and Godstone. We arrive equipped with dealer-level diagnostics and genuine-quality parts to get your remote or smart key working again—often on the first visit.

• Need remote key programming or a replacement fob? Visit our dedicated car key programming service.
• Locked out because the fob has failed? Our car unlock service in Redhill can help now.
• Unsure what you need? Contact our friendly team for a clear, no-obligation assessment.

Need help now? Call 01737 302 475 or Email us.

Helpful links

• Auto locksmith services in Redhill
• Car key programming
• Car key replacement Redhill
• Contact our Redhill team