Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs may experience issues with time, like a loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs are powered by flat watches-style batteries that is easily available at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
If the battery for a key fob dies, it can be a huge inconvenience particularly if you're away from home. There are methods to get your car back on the road in case your keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to test is if the buttons on the key fob still work. If they don't it could be a problem with the locks on your car.
If key fob repairs aren't unlocking you need to look for a mechanical key slot hidden in the door handle trim or on another part of the vehicle (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some vehicles come with an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile Application and myMazda apps, for example allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. These apps are charged monthly subscription fees.
You should also make sure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle's battery by being plugged into it. A dead fob can drain your battery fast particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you are watching.
The key fob should be held right up to your car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with low battery. This quick fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also find out if your key fob is actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, it could be necessary to replace the battery on your fob. It's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. The key fob has a circuit with "contact pads" which are covered by an electrically conductor film. The film wears off over time. This wear could cause your fob to react more slowly, or even not respond at all.
The pad that contacts the car keyfob is easily replaced with the flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged it will be difficult to open. You'll have to take it to an auto repair shop to repair the fob.
It's not unusual for a key fob to being dropped, trampled or even exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to the keys, such as bending or snapping them.
It could also affect the internals of the fob which could result in an issue. It's a good idea that's why you should always carry a spare fob in your wallet or in your pocket in case the one you're currently using breaks.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding in the way they should, first make sure the battery is in good working condition. Key fobs don't need an electronic device. They utilize the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at drug, hardware, and online stores.
If the battery is fine it's likely that the buttons are dirty or worn out, and can be easily cleaned using a moist cloth to wipe them clean. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine whether the issue is with yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob functions, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The secret world of fobs for car keys is more complex than many myths suggest. The basic fobs work on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs need to be programmed correctly in order for them to be able to unlock and start the car. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with very few exceptions it must be handled by the dealer.
Refer to the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealerships are able to create a new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops offer this service as well and you should check reviews and prices before choosing the shop.
Certain models of cars erase all other fobs if they're reprogrammed. This means that you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by professionals. This can be expensive especially if the fob has stopped working. Even if the mechanical key won't work to start your vehicle, it's a good idea to have a backup that can open the trunk and doors.
If you decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a difficult journey. You'll be disappointed by the numerous online guides that claim to be successful. Many of these guides were written by people with no prior experience in this field, and they're often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car key fob by yourself in just only a few clicks. This is misleading.
The battery is usually held in place by an elastic clip that is easily removed. However the circuit board houses the battery, so you will need to carefully pry the battery out using the aid of a tool. You should be able to locate the button battery. It's usually tiny batteries for a watch, which you can purchase at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. Replacing the battery is usually an easy process, but it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If your car key fob has been damaged or fails to function it is important to know that there are several options to fix the issue. It could be possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However, a more extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob is useful in the event that one is stolen or lost.
Most modern key fobs contain an incredibly small physical key in addition to the electronic components they use, which makes them both more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart" fobs have a built-in remote starter. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour for a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a tiny radio transmitter built into circuit boards. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which transmits 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 start the vehicle from a distance without the need to insert the ignition key in.
If car key fob repairs on your key fob are not responding or working intermittently, they could be damaged by water. You can fix the fob if you take it apart and examine for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing an entirely new fob.
It is best to check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's important to look up the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. While some fobs are able to be replaced by a trusted locksmith, other models require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.