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, such as a loss of functionality. While some issues may require professional attention, many can be fixed at home.
Change the battery is often the first step. Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which is easily available at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
If a key fob battery dies, it can be a huge inconvenience particularly if you're away from home. There are solutions to get your car back on the road in case your keyless entry system has stopped working.
The first thing to check is to see if the buttons on the key fob are still working. If they do, the issue could be in the locks of your car instead of the fob.
If the keys won't unlock try looking for a mechanical key slot hidden in your door handle trim or on another part of the vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this fails, some cars have an app that allows you to unlock doors remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to unlock the doors using smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly cost.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining the car's battery by sitting on it. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, particularly when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
A key fob that's low on battery may be activated by holding it right up to the start button. This simple fix could save you from having to visit your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it's not working it's likely that the battery needs replacement. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It is possible that your key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob likely contains a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are covered with an electrically conducting film which wears down over time. This wear could cause your device to respond more slowly, or even not to respond at all.
The good news is that the pad in the key fob of a car can be replaced easily, and can be done so with the help of an easy flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it may be difficult to open. You'll have to take it to an auto shop to have the fob repaired.
It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. These incidents can cause physical damage, including bending and snapping the keys.
This could also affect the internals of the fob which could result in a malfunction. It's a good idea therefore, to always carry an extra fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you're currently using breaks.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding in the way they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good condition. Remember that key fobs aren't any special type of electronic device - the majority of them use the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches that are readily available at drug stores, hardware stores, and even online.
If the battery is in good condition it is possible that the buttons are worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, you could try an alternative car key fob. This will help determine whether the issue is yours or a specific model. If the other fob functions then it's likely your key fob needs to be reprogrammed or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car key fobs is much more complex than some myths would suggest. The basic fobs function by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be properly programmed in order for them to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as easy 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 based on the model and model year of the car you own and it's essential to read the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealerships are capable of creating a brand new key fob and then resync it to your vehicle. However some independent shops offer this service as well so make sure to look up reviews and prices prior to selecting the shop.
Certain models of cars will erase all other fobs once they've been programmed, meaning you'll have to have any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is a costly proposition, especially if you're down to just one working fob. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you choose to reprogram your fob yourself. There are countless guides online that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. A lot of these guides were created by people who have no experience in this area and often are founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which is extremely misleading.
Most key fobs are held by a plastic clip that is easy to remove however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pull it out using a device. Once you've got inside, you'll be able to find the button cell battery, which is usually a small watch battery that can be found at a variety of pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's typically simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
Replacement
There are several ways to fix a broken or damaged car key fob. An easy fix could be as simple as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more in-depth repair may be needed. remote car key repair near me 's also beneficial to have a spare key fob in case one is lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs include an incredibly small physical key in addition to the electronic components they use, which makes them both more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart" fobs have a built-in remote starter. It's important to be aware that it can take an hour or more to cut and program an alternative fob for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver by using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on circuit boards. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the vehicle from a distance without the need to insert the ignition key in.
If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or function intermittently, it can indicate that they have been damaged by water or other causes. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and check for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the problem, try reprogramming the fob or purchasing a new fob.
You should check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are many aftermarket fobs less expensive, but it's crucial to study the brands and read reviews before trying to program them. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith, other models require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.