Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs may experience issues over time, including an inability to function. Certain issues may require professional attention, however many are fixable at home.
The first step is typically to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watches-style batteries that can be easily found at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly issue when a key fob's battery dies. This is especially the case when you are far from home. There are ways to get your car back on the road if you're keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing you should check is to see if the buttons on the key fob still work. If they do, then the problem may lie with the car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys don't work try looking for a mechanical key slot hidden in the trim of your door handle or in another location on the vehicle (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, some vehicles have an application that lets you unlock it remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile Application and myMazda apps, for example allow owners to open their doors using smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription.
You should also make sure that your key fob isn't draining the car's battery by sitting on it. A dead key fob can drain your battery, particularly when you use its remote feature while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
The key fob should be held right to the car's start button may cause the key fob that has an empty battery. It's a quick fix that will save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, you might need to replace the fob battery. It's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to unlock doors or start your vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob is equipped with a circuit with "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears away over time. The wear may cause your device to respond slow or not respond at all.
The good news is that the contact pad in a car key fob is simple to replace and it can be done with the help of a simple flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob has been badly damaged or smashed in any way, it might be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop for repairs.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to the keys, including bending or snapping them.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob that could lead to malfunction. It's a good idea, so, always keep a spare fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you currently have is damaged.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working in the way they should, you should first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Key fobs don't require a special type of electronic device. They use the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is functioning properly the buttons could be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons still don't work, you can test a different car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob works, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car key fobs is much more intricate than what some myths would suggest. Basic fobs work on radio frequency signals specific to each vehicle. The fobs need to be programmed correctly to open and start the car. Unfortunately it's not as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with a few exceptions, it has to be done by a dealer.
The process of reprogramming a fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your vehicle, so it's important to read the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that ensures only dealerships can design an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service too, so be sure to check reviews and prices before choosing the shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs once they are reprogrammed. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This can be expensive especially if the fob is no longer working. Even if the mechanical key won't start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a difficult experience if you decide to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are many guides on the internet that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. A lot of these guides were written by people with no experience in this area, and they're often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car's key fob yourself with only a few clicks. This is misleading.
The majority of key fobs are held by a plastic clip that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pry it out with a tool. You should be able find the button cell battery. It's usually tiny batteries for a watch, which is available at most home improvement or pharmacies. The replacement of the battery is generally simple, and it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
There are several ways to fix a damaged or malfunctioning car key fob. It's as easy as replacing the battery or programming the key fob however a more extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob could be useful in the event one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and difficult to replace because they contain an actual key as well as the electronics. keys repair come with a remote starter. As such, it's important to know that it could take up to an hour for a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter on a circuitboard. When you press a button, the transmitter transmits an RF signal specific to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and validates it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the vehicle from a distance without having to put the key in the ignition.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or operate intermittently it could indicate that they have been damaged due to water or other elements. It is possible to repair the fob by removing it and looking for any damaged or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can try reprogramming your fob or getting a new one.
You should check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive, but you should study the reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith others require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.