Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs could experience problems such as loss of functionality. While some issues might require professional attention, the majority can be fixed at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs use flat watches that are readily available in hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a major inconvenience when the battery of a key fob goes out. This is especially the case if you are away from home. There are ways to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry doesn't work.
One of the first things you should be sure of is whether the buttons on the key fob work. If they do, then the issue may be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If the keys won't unlock you need to look for a mechanical key slot located in the door handle trim or on another part of the car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, certain cars have an app that allows you to unlock it remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for example allow owners to open their doors using smartphones. However, these apps require an annual cost.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by sitting on it. A dead fob will drain your battery quickly particularly if it's used to control the TV or phone while you are watching.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button can sometimes start a key fob with low battery. This simple fix could save you from a trip to your dealer or certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also find out whether your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it doesn't, it could be necessary to replace the battery in your fob. broken car key repair near me '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 the car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob contains a circuit with "contact pads" which are covered by an electrically conductive film. The film wears away over time. This wear can cause your device to respond slower, or not respond at all.
The good news is that the contact pad in the car key fob can be replaced easily, and can be done so by using a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it may be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto repair shop to get the fob repaired.
It's not unusual for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to the keys, including bending or snapping them.
This could also alter the internals of the fob which could result in an issue. It's a good idea, that's why you should always carry an additional fob in your wallet or pocket in case the one you currently have fails.
Examine the battery first to determine If your key fob's buttons aren't responding in the way they should. Remember that key fobs don't come with a particular kind of electronic device; the majority of them use the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches, which are readily available at hardware stores, drug stores, and online.
If the battery is in good condition, the buttons may be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, test a different key fob to see whether the problem is with yours or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other fob is working then it's likely the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is more complicated than the myths would suggest. The basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to allow unlocking and starting the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple 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. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only the dealership is able to create a new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops offer this service as well, so be sure to look up reviews and prices prior to choosing the shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs once they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll have to have any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be costly especially if the fob isn't working anymore. It's always wise to have at least one spare mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk, even if it won't start the car.
If you do attempt to reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a difficult journey. You'll be disappointed by the numerous online guides that claim to be successful. A majority of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated statements. Some even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which is extremely misleading.
The battery is typically secured with a plastic clip, which is easily removed. However the circuit board houses the battery, and you'll need to remove the battery with an instrument. Once you've got inside, you'll be able locate the button cell battery which is typically a small watch battery that can be found at a variety of pharmacies or home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally a straightforward procedure, and it's always worth trying first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
If a car key fob is damaged or isn't functioning, it's important to know that there are a few ways to remedy the problem. An easy fix could be as easy as replacing the battery or programming the key fob however a more extensive repair may be required. It is also helpful to keep a spare fob in case one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace since they have an actual key and electronic. Some "smart fobs" even include remote starters. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour to have an alternative key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a tiny radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuitboard. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which sends a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and begin it from a distance, without putting the key in the ignition or turning the lock.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or function intermittently it could mean that they have been damaged by water or other factors. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and look for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try reprogramming the fob, or buying a new one.
Before you purchase a replacement fob online, you should seek out an expert locksmith or your local dealer to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper but you should research brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them yourself. While some fobs can be replaced by a trusted locksmith, others require special programming equipment that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.