Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs may experience issues over time, including the loss of functionality. Some issues may need professional attention, but many are fixable at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which can be easily found 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. However, there are options to get back on the road even the car's keyless entry doesn't work.
The first thing you should check is if the buttons on the fob are working. If they do, then the issue could be in the locks of your car instead of the fob.
If the keys won't unlock you need to look for a key slot with a mechanical lock hidden in the trim of your door handle or on another part of the 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. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle's battery by sitting on it. A dead fob will drain your battery fast, especially if it is used to control your phone or TV while you're watching.
Holding the key fob to the car's start button can sometimes start the key fob that has low battery. It's a quick solution that could save you going to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
If your key fob doesn't work, you can test it in a car with an ignition button. If it fails, the fob battery probably requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that your key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob likely contains a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button, and these tiny pads are coated with an electricity conducting film that wears down over time. This wear can cause your fob to respond slower, or not to respond at all.
The good news is that the contact pad in the key fob of a car can be replaced easily, and can be done so with the help of a simple flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is severely damaged or broken in any way, it could be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto shop for repair.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob and cause an issue. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key fob in your wallet or pocket in case you break the one you already have.
If your key fob's buttons aren't responding as they should, first make sure the battery is in good working condition. Key fobs do not require a special type of electronic device. They use the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. These batteries are available at drug, hardware, and online stores.
If the battery is fine it's possible that the buttons are just dirty or worn down and can be easily cleaned by using a damp cloth to clean them. If the buttons don't work, try another car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or a specific model. If the other fob works then it's likely your key fob needs to be reset or possibly replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car keys fobs is more complex than many myths 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. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing a few keys. key repairs 's usually handled by the dealer.
Refer to the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that makes sure only the dealership can create an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. However, some independent shops can offer this service as well so make sure to review reviews and prices prior to selecting a shop.
Some car models will erase all other fobs once they're reprogrammed. This means that you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by a professional. This is a costly proposition, especially if you're down to one functioning fob. It is always advisable to have at minimum a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk, even if it won't start the car.
Be prepared for a difficult experience if you choose to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are many guides online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides are written by people who have no knowledge of 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 the click of a button. This is a false claim.
The battery is typically held in place by an elastic clip that can be removed easily. However the circuit board is home to the battery, and you will need to carefully remove the battery using the aid of a tool. Once you've gotten inside, you'll be able to locate the button cell battery, which is typically a small watch battery that can be found in most pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's typically simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first.
Replacement
There are many ways to fix a damaged or damaged car key fob. It's as easy as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, however a more extensive repair might be required. It's also beneficial to have a spare key fob in case one gets lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs contain a small physical key, in addition to the electronics, making them both pricier and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart" fobs also include a remote starter built-in. It's important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to cut and program an alternative fob for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver by using a small radio transmitter on circuit boards. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, which transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and verifies it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the car and start it from a distance, without putting the key in the ignition or turning a lock.
If your fob's buttons aren't working or responding intermittently, they may be damaged by water. It is possible to repair the fob if you take it apart and check for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this does not solve the problem, try reprogramming or buying a new fob.
Before buying a replacement key fob online, you should contact a professional locksmith or your local dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive however, you must research brands and read reviews before attempting to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be programmed by an experienced locksmith however, other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer is able to utilize.