Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can experience problems over time, including an inability to function. Some issues may need professional attention, however many can be fixed at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs have batteries with a flat design that are easy to find in hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a major problem when a key fob's battery is dead. This is particularly true if you are away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road when your vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to check is if the buttons on the fob are working. If they do, the issue could be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys won't unlock, there may be a mechanical slot in the trim around your door handles or on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, some cars have an app that allows you to unlock the door remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors with their smartphones. These apps are charged monthly subscription fees.
You should also check whether your key fob won't take the car's battery away by resting on them. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, especially if you use its remote feature while watching TV or talking on the phone.
A key fob that's just low on battery may be activated by holding it until you hit the start button. It's a simple fix that will save you going to the dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out if your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the battery on your fob. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to unlock doors or start your car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob contains an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductor film. The film wears away over time. This wear can cause your device to respond slower or not at all.
The good news is that the pad in the car key fob can be replaced easily, and is done using a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged it may be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto shop to repair the fob.
It's not uncommon for a key fob being dropped, trampled or even exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, such as bending and snapping the keys.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob that could cause a malfunction. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your wallet or pocket in case you accidentally break the one you already have.
Make sure the battery is charged first if your key fob buttons are not responding as they should. Remember that key fobs don't come with a particular kind of electronic device - they're typically powered by the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids that are readily available at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online.
If the battery is functioning properly the buttons could be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons still don't work, you could try a different car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or a specific model. If the other fob functions then it's likely the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed, or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is more complicated than the myths would suggest. Basic fobs function on radio frequency signals specific to each car. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to allow unlocking and starting the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons and with only a few exceptions it must be handled by a dealer.
Check the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that ensures only the dealership can create a new fob and re-sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices prior to selecting a shop.
Some car models will wipe out all other fobs when they're programmed, meaning you'll need to get any additional fobs programmed professionally. This is a costly proposition especially if you're only just one functional fob. Even if the mechanical key won't start the vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup key that can open the trunk and doors.
If you do decide to attempt to reprogram your fob on your own be prepared for a difficult journey. You'll be disappointed with the numerous guides on the internet that claim to be successful. A lot of these guides were written by people with no experience in this area, and they're often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even claim that you can program your own car key fob in only a few clicks, which is very misleading.
The majority of key fobs are held in place by a plastic clip which is easy to remove, however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, so you'll need to carefully pry it out with a tool. You should be able to find the button battery. It's typically tiny batteries for a watch, which is available at most home improvement or pharmacies. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always worthwhile to try first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If the car key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning it is crucial to know that there are several options to fix the issue. It's as easy as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but a more in-depth repair may be required. auto key repair is useful in the event one is stolen or lost.
Most modern key fobs contain the physical key, in addition to the electronic component which makes them more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" include remote starters. It's important to know that it could take up to an hour to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter built into the circuit board. By pressing a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver receives the signal and validates it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the vehicle from a distance without having to put the ignition key in.
If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or function intermittently it could indicate that they've been damaged due to water or other elements. You can repair the fob if you take it apart and look for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this does not solve the issue, try reprogramming or buying an entirely new fob.
It is recommended to consult a local auto dealer or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper but you should study the reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. While some fobs can be replaced by a reputable locksmith, others require special programming equipment that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.