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, such as the loss of functionality. While some issues may require expert attention, most can be resolved at home.
Change the battery is often the first step. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which are 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 vehicle 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 fob still work. If they aren't it could be a problem with the locks on your car.
If the keys aren't unlocking, look for a key slot with a mechanical lock hidden in the door handle trim or somewhere else on the vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this fails there are some cars that have an app that lets you unlock doors remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example let owners unlock their doors using smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly cost.
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, particularly when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone.
Holding the key fob right up to your car's start button may cause a key fob with a low battery. This simple fix can save you from a trip to your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it's not working the battery of the fob needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in the bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob doesn't have the ability to open doors or start the car remotely, it's possible 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 conductive film. This film wears off over time. This wear could cause your fob to react more slowly, or even not to respond at all.
The good news is that the pad in a car key fob can be replaced easily, and is done using an easy flathead screwdriver. If the key fob is severely 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 shop for repair.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on or exposed to water. These incidents can cause physical damage, including breaking and snapping keys.
This can also cause internal damage to the fob, which could cause an issue. This is why it's an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in the event that you damage the one you own.
Check the battery first If your key fob's buttons aren't responding as they should. Keep in mind that key fobs don't come with a particular type of electronic device - the majority of them use the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids and are available at drug stores, hardware stores, and online.
If the battery is good, the buttons may be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons don't work, you could try another car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or an specific model. If the other key fob works it is possible that yours needs to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths suggest. The basic fobs operate by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to allow unlocking and starting the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons, and with very few exceptions it needs to be handled by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that guarantees only dealerships can design the new fob and sync it with your vehicle. However certain independent shops provide this service as well, so be sure to check reviews and prices before choosing a shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs when they're changed. This means that you'll have to have any extra fobs programmed by an expert. This can be expensive particularly if your fob is no longer working. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start your vehicle, it's a great 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 countless guides on the internet that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. A lot of these guides were created by people who have no prior experience in this field and often are founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car's key fob yourself with a few clicks. This is false.
The battery is usually secured with an elastic clip that can be removed easily. However, the circuit board contains the battery, and you will need to carefully remove the battery with a tool. Once you've gotten inside, you should be able locate the button cell battery which is usually a small watch battery that can be purchased at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally an easy process, but it's always worth trying first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
If your car key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning it is crucial to know that there are several ways to address the issue. It could be possible to resolve the issue quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However an extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob could be helpful in the event that one is stolen or lost.
Most modern key fobs contain the physical key in addition the electronics they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Certain "smart" fobs also come with a remote starter. As such, it's important to know that it could take up to an hour to have a replacement key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. keys repair and verifies it against preprogrammed codes. This lets the driver unlock the car and start it from a distance without putting the key in the ignition or turning a lock.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or operate intermittently it could mean that they have been damaged by water or other factors. You may be able to repair the fob by taking it apart and looking for any damaged or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the problem, you can try reprogramming your fob or getting another one.
Before you purchase a replacement fob online, seek out a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper, but you should study the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them yourself. Some fobs can be changed by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer is able to use.