Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may be affected by issues such as loss of functionality. While some issues may require professional attention, the majority can be fixed at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs have flat watches which are easily found at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly problem when the battery of a key fob is dead. This is particularly true when you are far from home. However, there are options to get back on the road when your vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things you should be sure of is whether the key fob's buttons still work. If they do, the issue may be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys will not unlock, there may be a mechanical slot in the trim around your door handles or in other places on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some vehicles have an application that lets you unlock it remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly cost.
You should also make sure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by sitting on it. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, especially if you use its remote features while watching TV or talking on the phone.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with low battery. It's a simple solution that could save you a trip to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine whether your key fob is actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, it could be necessary to replace the battery on your fob. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob inside the bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that your key fob is damaged and has a button. Your key fob contains an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" which are covered by an electrically conductive film. The film wears off over time. This wear can cause your device to respond more slowly, or even not at all.
The pad that contacts the car keyfob is easily replaced using an flat-head screwdriver. However, if the key fob is severely damaged or smashed in any way, it could be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not common for a key fob be thrown around, trampled upon or exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
It could also affect the internals of your fob and could cause a malfunction. This is why it's always a good idea to carry a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in the event that you damage the one you own.
If your key fob's buttons aren't responding to the extent they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good condition. Key fobs do not require any special electronic device. They use the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at drug, hardware, and online stores.
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 don't work, you could try an alternative car key fob. This will help determine if the problem is yours or an specific model. If the other fob is working, it's likely that your key fob has to be reprogrammed, or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car keys fobs is much more complex than many myths suggest. The basic fobs function by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs must be programmed correctly in order to be able to be able to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons and with only a few exceptions it has to be done by the dealer.
The procedure of reprogramming a fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your car It is therefore essential to consult the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealerships are capable of creating a new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may also offer this service, so check reviews and prices prior to selecting the right shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs when they're changed. This means that you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by an expert. This can be costly particularly if your fob isn't working anymore. It's always recommended to have at least one spare mechanical key you can use to unlock the trunk and doors even if it doesn't start the car.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you decide to reprogram your fob yourself. You'll be disappointed with the numerous online guides that promise success. Many of these guides are written by people with no experience in this area and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car key fob with just a few clicks. This is misleading.
The battery is typically held in place with an elastic clip that can be easily removed. However, the circuit board contains the battery, so you will need to carefully pry the battery out using the aid of a tool. You should be able to find the button battery. It's typically a small battery for watches that you can purchase at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Replacing the battery is usually simple, and it's always worth trying first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If a car key fob has been damaged or has stopped working, it's important to know there are several ways to remedy the problem. It could be possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair may be required. A spare fob can be useful in the event one is lost or taken.
The majority of modern key fobs have an incredibly small physical key in addition to the electronics which makes them more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" even include a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour for a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs utilize a small radio transmitter that is mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. When you press a button, the transmitter transmits an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver receives the signal and checks it against preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the car from a distance without the need to put the ignition key in.
If your fob's buttons are not responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You may be able to repair the fob by taking it apart and inspecting for any broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, try reprogramming the fob or purchasing another one.
You should check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's important to look up the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them. Certain fobs can be programmed by an experienced locksmith however, other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer is able to use.