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, including a loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, but many can be resolved at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs use flat watches that are easy to find at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If the battery for a key fob is dead, it could be a huge inconvenience, especially if you're away from home. There are methods to get your car back on the road if your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things to check is to determine if the buttons on your key fob function. If they don't it could be a problem in the car's locks.
If the keys aren't unlocking you need to look for a key slot with a mechanical lock 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 doesn't work, some cars have an app that allows you to open doors remotely. vehicle key repairs and myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly fee.
Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by sitting on it. A dead fob can drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control your phone or TV while you're watching.
Holding the key fob right to the car's start button could cause an ignition key fob with low battery. This quick fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by testing it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, you might need to replace the battery in your fob. It's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob doesn't have the ability to open doors or start the car remotely, it's likely 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. These tiny pads are coated with a conductor of electricity which wears down over time. This wear could cause your fob to respond slower or not at all.
The good news is that the pad in a car key fob is easy to replace, and it can be done by using a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged, it will be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto repair shop to get the fob repaired.
It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on or exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, including breaking and snapping keys.
It could also affect the internals of your fob, which could lead to malfunction. It's a good idea so, always keep an extra fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you currently have is damaged.
Make sure the battery is charged first If your key fob's buttons are not responding in the way they should. Key fobs don't require an electronic device. They use the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is in good condition it is possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can try a different key fob to see whether the issue is with yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob functions it is possible that yours needs to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of fobs for car keys is more complicated than most myths suggest. The basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be programmed correctly in order to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing a few keys. It's usually handled by the dealer.
The procedure for reprogramming the fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of the car you own and it's essential to read the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes have proprietary technology that only the dealership is able to create a new key fob and then resync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so check reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop.
Certain car models erase other fobs when they are programmed again. This means that you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by an expert. This is a costly proposition, especially if you're down to just one working fob. It's always wise to have a spare mechanical key you can use to unlock the trunk and doors, even if it won't start the car.
If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a difficult journey. There are many guides online that promise to work however, you're likely to be disappointed. A majority of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated statements. Some of them even state that you can program your own car key fob with just a few clicks, which is very misleading.
The majority of key fobs are held by a plastic clip that is easy to remove however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pry it out using a tool. Once you get inside, you'll be able to find the button cell battery which is typically a tiny watch battery that is available in most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally a straightforward procedure, and it's always a good idea to test this first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
There are a variety of ways to fix a broken or damaged car key fob. A quick fix can be as easy as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, but a more in-depth repair may be needed. A spare fob is useful in the event that one is lost or taken.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and difficult to replace due to the fact that they have the physical key and electronic. 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 an alternative fob for your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, and it transmits a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and validates it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance, without having to put the ignition key in.
If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to 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 examining it for broken or unresponsive buttons. If this does not solve the issue, you can try reprogramming it or purchasing a new fob.
Before purchasing a replacement key fob on the internet, contact an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's essential to study the brands and read reviews before trying to program them. Certain fobs can be programmed by a locksmith who is reputable, but other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer can use.