Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can have issues with time, like a loss of functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watch-style battery, which are easily found at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real issue when a key fob's battery goes out. This is particularly true if you are away from home. There are methods to get your vehicle back on the road in case your keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to check is to see if the buttons on the fob are working. If they do, the issue may be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys do not unlock, you might find an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or in other places on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, some vehicles have an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for example allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. vehicle key repairs do charge a monthly subscription fee.
You should also check that your key fob does not take the car's battery away by sitting on them. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, especially if you use its remote features while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
The key fob should be held right towards the start button could cause an ignition key fob with low battery. It's a quick fix that can save you a trip to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out if your key fob is actually dead by testing it in a different vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the battery in your fob. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob is unable to open doors or start the vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob is likely to have an electronic circuit board that has "contact pads" for each button, and these tiny pads are coated with a conductor of electricity which wears down over time. This wear can cause your device to respond less quickly, or not at all.
The pad that contacts the car keyfob is easily replaced using the flat-head screwdriver. However, if the key fob is badly damaged or smashed in any way, it may be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll be required to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be thrown around, trampled upon, or exposed water. All of these can cause physical damage to keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This can also cause internal damage to the fob, which could lead to a malfunction. It's a good idea that's why you should always carry an additional fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you currently have is damaged.
Check the battery first If your key fob's buttons are not responding in the way they should. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device - most of them run on the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids, which are readily available at hardware stores, drug stores, and online.
If the battery is good, the buttons may be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can try a different type of 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 perhaps replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is much more complex than some myths would suggest. The basic fobs operate on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs have to be programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it must be handled by a dealer.
The process of reprogramming a fob depends on the make and model year of the car you own, so it's important to read the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that ensures only dealers can create the new fob and sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop.
Some car models will erase all other fobs once they've been programmed, meaning you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This can be costly, especially if your fob has stopped working. Even in the event that the mechanical key will not work to start the vehicle, it's a good idea to have a backup key that can open the trunk and doors.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you opt to reprogram your fob yourself. You'll be disappointed by the numerous online guides that claim to be successful. Many of these guides are written by people with no experience in this area and often are based on unsubstantiated claims. This Web page of these guides claim that you can easily program your car key fob yourself with a few clicks. This is false.
Most key fobs are held in place by a plastic clip that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is within the circuit board, so you'll need to carefully pry it out using a device. Once you've got inside, you should be able to 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. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always worthwhile to try this first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If the car key fob has been damaged or has stopped working, it's important to know there are several options to remedy the problem. An easy fix could be as simple as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, but a more thorough repair might be required. A spare fob can be useful in the event one is stolen or lost.
The majority of modern key fobs have an incredibly small physical key in addition the electronic component, making them both pricier and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" even come with remote starters. It's important to know that it can take up to an hour to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter on the circuit board. By pressing a button the transmitter transmits an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and verifies it against preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the car from a distance without the need to insert the key in the ignition.
If your key fob buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they could be damaged by water. You may be able to fix the fob by taking it apart and examining it for broken or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing an entirely new one.
It is best to check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper however, you must look into the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them yourself. While some fobs are able to be replaced by a reputable locksmith others require specialized programming equipment that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.