Do key fobs go bad?
#1
Intermediate
Thread Starter
Do key fobs go bad?
With more regularity, I'm having difficulty opening the door, and/or starting my '06 C6. The "no key fob detected" message is also more common. Yes, I change the battery when these issues become more common. But then, I'm also using more batteries.
Do key fobs go bad? Should I switch to key fob #2?
I'm fearful of being locked out, or unable to start the car in some remote location.
Thoughts?
Do key fobs go bad? Should I switch to key fob #2?
I'm fearful of being locked out, or unable to start the car in some remote location.
Thoughts?
Last edited by kansasjayhawks; 05-20-2018 at 05:50 PM. Reason: added content
#2
Race Director
More likely the batteries you're using arnt fresh. They should last years. And if you have it and the key with you at all times you can't get locked out.
Last edited by EVRose; 05-20-2018 at 06:28 PM.
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owc6 (05-27-2018)
#3
Intermediate
Thread Starter
Do key fobs go bad
I've wondered about the "new" batteries I'm buying from WalMart. There's no expiration date that I can find. I've always wondered if they aren't "fresh" or expired.
Do you carry the key with you? Wish it was integrated into the fob, like so many. Maybe I can hide it somewhere under/around the car?
#4
Race Director
I do have the fob and key on a keyring. They never leave my pocket when I'm out. You could get the newer style fob if you want the key integrated with it.
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kansasjayhawks (05-20-2018)
#5
Team Owner
However, at one time, they sold the batteries that had engraving on one side and sometimes they didn't make a good connection in the fob.
A slight possibility is a contact in the fob is bent and is making a connection when you're just carrying the fob and not using it.
GM says the fob batteries that come with a new fob should last about 3 years.
Last edited by Vette_DD; 05-20-2018 at 08:16 PM.
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kansasjayhawks (05-20-2018)
#6
Pro
Ive had intermittent issues with batteries that have a hatch pattern etched onto the + surface. Switched to Duracell which are smooth.
Last edited by ALS 08; 05-21-2018 at 10:15 AM.
#7
Safety Car
Member Since: Aug 2017
Location: Etobicoke (Toronto) Ontario
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With more regularity, I'm having difficulty opening the door, and/or starting my '06 C6. The "no key fob detected" message is also more common. Yes, I change the battery when these issues become more common. But then, I'm also using more batteries.
Do key fobs go bad? Should I switch to key fob #2?
I'm fearful of being locked out, or unable to start the car in some remote location.
Thoughts?
Do key fobs go bad? Should I switch to key fob #2?
I'm fearful of being locked out, or unable to start the car in some remote location.
Thoughts?
#8
Team Owner
Member Since: Mar 2004
Location: Oklahoma City OK
Posts: 58,255
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1,296 Posts
C6 of Year Finalist (appearance mods) 2019
After I washed one in the washing machine, it was bad!
#9
Drifting
FOBs normally last a long time, as long as you replace the batteries when they get low and use an electronics contact cleaner on the internals (similar to the electronic door release switch). My passenger door release unit started failing (door wouldn't open for about 5 seconds and 3 or 4 retries) and I took it apart and cleaned the contact points with rubbing alcohol and it works good as new.
#11
Racer
With more regularity, I'm having difficulty opening the door, and/or starting my '06 C6. The "no key fob detected" message is also more common. Yes, I change the battery when these issues become more common. But then, I'm also using more batteries.
Do key fobs go bad? Should I switch to key fob #2?
I'm fearful of being locked out, or unable to start the car in some remote location.
Thoughts?
Do key fobs go bad? Should I switch to key fob #2?
I'm fearful of being locked out, or unable to start the car in some remote location.
Thoughts?
Last edited by door2416; 05-22-2018 at 06:23 AM.
#12
Drifting
If your FOBs show any sign of weakness, replace the battery asap to see if it fixes it (or clean the contacts as I mentioned).
Last edited by Must_Have_Z; 05-21-2018 at 05:29 PM.
#13
Drifting
The #1 fob for my 08 is getting to where it doesn't work very often anymore. The #2 fob works just fine. I replaced batteries in both fobs at the same time. I even removed the battery in fob #1 to check the voltage and it is where it is supposed to be. So I will be shopping for a new fob soon. Besides, the little button you push to remove the key is broken anyway, so it is time for a replacement. Any suggestions on where to buy a new one?
#14
Race Director
The #1 fob for my 08 is getting to where it doesn't work very often anymore. The #2 fob works just fine. I replaced batteries in both fobs at the same time. I even removed the battery in fob #1 to check the voltage and it is where it is supposed to be. So I will be shopping for a new fob soon. Besides, the little button you push to remove the key is broken anyway, so it is time for a replacement. Any suggestions on where to buy a new one?