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 are fixable at home.
The first step is generally to change the battery. Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are readily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a major inconvenience when a key fob's battery goes out. This is particularly true when you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road when your vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to test is if the buttons on the key fob are still working. If they don't then the issue could be in the car's locks.
If your keys will not unlock, there may be an electronic slot in the trim around the door handles or elsewhere on your 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 unlock doors remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly fee.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob doesn't take the car's battery away by sitting on them. A dead key fob can drain your battery fast particularly if it's used to control the TV or phone while you are watching.
A key fob that's just low on battery can sometimes be activated by holding it right up to the start button. It's a quick fix that can save you going to the dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
If your key fob doesn't work, you can test it in a car with a push-button starter. If it fails, the fob battery probably needs replacement. It's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in your purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons is damaged. Your key fob is equipped with a circuit with "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductor film. The film wears away over time. This wear can make your fob respond slow or not respond at all.
The good news is that the pad on the car key fob is simple to replace and it can be done with the help of a simple flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is severely smashed or harmed in any way, it might be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll need to take the fob into an auto shop for repair.
It's not unusual for a key fob to being dropped, trampled, or exposed water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This can also cause internal damage to the fob and result in a malfunction. It's a good idea that's why you should always carry a spare fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you're using breaks.
Check the battery first to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't working as they should. Keep in mind that key fobs don't come with a particular kind of electronic device; most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries that are used in hearing aids and watches and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online.
If the battery is in good condition it's likely that the buttons are just worn down or dirty and can be easily cleaned using a damp cloth to wipe them clean. If they're still not responding, you can try a different key fob to determine if the issue is related to yours or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other fob works it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed or possibly replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car key fobs is more complicated than the myths suggest. Basic fobs operate using radio frequency signals that are specific to each vehicle. The fobs must be properly programmed in order to be able to unlock and start the car. Reprogramming a key fob is not as easy as pressing a few keys. It is usually handled by the dealer.
The procedure for reprogramming the fob is based on the model and model year of your vehicle, so it's important to consult the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that guarantees only dealerships can design an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so check reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop.
Some car models will erase all other fobs once they're programmed again. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This is a costly proposition especially if you're only just one functional fob. Even in the event that the mechanical key will not work to start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a difficult experience if you decide to reprogram your fob yourself. You'll be disappointed by numerous guides on the internet that claim to be successful. Many of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car's key fob yourself with a few clicks. This is misleading.
Most key fobs are secured by a clip made of plastic which is easy to remove, but the battery is inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. Once you get inside, you'll be able to find the button cell battery which is usually a small watch battery that is available in most pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first.
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There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or non-functioning car key fob. It could be possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However an extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob can be useful in the event that one is stolen or lost.
Most modern key fobs include 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" even include a remote starter. As such, it's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour to have a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a tiny radio transmitter on the circuit board. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, which transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver receives the signal and checks it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance without the need to insert the ignition key in.
If your key fob buttons aren't working or responding intermittently, they could be damaged by water. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and look for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the problem, try reprogramming or buying an entirely new fob.
You should check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper, but you should look into the reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. While some fobs are able to be replaced by a reputable locksmith, other models require special programming equipment that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.