Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may experience problems such as malfunction. Some issues may need professional attention, but most are fixable at home.
The first step is typically to change the battery. The majority of fobs have flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find in hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If the battery for a key fob fails, it can be a huge inconvenience particularly if you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry isn't working.
One of the first things to be sure of is to determine if the key fob's buttons still function. If they do, the issue may be with the car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys will not unlock, you might find an electronic slot in the trim around the door handles or in other places on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails certain cars come with an app that can open doors remotely. For example, the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps require an annual cost.
You should also check that your key fob doesn't take the car's battery away by resting on them. A dead fob can drain your battery quickly particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you are watching.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button could cause an ignition key fob with low battery. It's a simple fix that can save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, the fob battery probably needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob inside the bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that the key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob is equipped with an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductory film. This film wears off over time. The wear may cause your fob to react more slowly, or even not respond at all.
The good news is that the contact pad on the car key fob is easy to replace, and it can be done with the help of an easy flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is badly smashed or harmed in any way, it could be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll be required to take the fob to an auto shop for repair.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped, trampled on or even exposed to water. car keys repairs near me of these can cause physical damage to the keys, including bending or snapping them.
This could also cause internal damage to the fob, which could lead to a malfunction. This is why it's a good idea to carry a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in case you break the one you have.
Make sure the battery is charged first If your key fob's buttons are not responding as they should. Key fobs do not require a special type of electronic device. They are powered by 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 in good condition it is possible that the buttons are worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can try a different key fob to see whether the issue is related to yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other fob functions it's likely that your key fob has to be reprogrammed or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is much more complex than some myths would suggest. Basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are specific to each vehicle. The fobs must be properly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing a few keys. It's usually handled by the dealer.
The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of your car, so it's important to refer to the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealers are capable of creating a brand new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops provide this service as well and you should look up reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop.
Certain car models erase other fobs when they're programmed, meaning you'll need to get any additional fobs programmed professionally. This is an expensive proposition, especially if you're down to just one working fob. Even if the mechanical key won't work to start your vehicle, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.
If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a frustrating journey. There are countless guides online that promise to work, but you'll likely be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people with no experience in this area and often are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which is very confusing.
The majority of key fobs are secured 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. You should be able to find the button battery. This is usually tiny batteries for watches that is available at most home improvement or pharmacies. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
There are several ways to fix a broken or non-functioning car key fob. It is possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair may be needed. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace because they contain a physical key along with electronic. Some "smart fobs" even come with a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to know that it can take up to an hour to get a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, and it transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes the signal and checks it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance without the need to put the key in the ignition.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or operate intermittently it could mean that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You could be able to repair the fob by disassembling it and looking for any damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, try reprogramming or buying a new fob.
You should check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are many aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's essential to look up the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them. While some fobs are able to be replaced by a reputable locksmith others require special programming equipment that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.