Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs can have issues, such as a loss of functionality. While some issues may require expert attention, most are fixable at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watches-style batteries that is easily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real issue when a key fob's battery is dead. This is particularly true when you are far from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road even if your vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing you should check is if the buttons on the key fob still work. If they don't then the issue could be with the locks on your car.
If the keys aren't unlocking, look for a mechanical key slot located 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 fails to unlock the door, some vehicles come with an app that allows you to unlock it remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to open their doors using 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 key fob can drain your battery fast particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you are watching.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with a low battery. It's a simple fix that will save you a trip to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it's not working, the fob battery probably needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that your key fob is damaged and has a button. Your key fob contains an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductor film. This film wears off over time. This wear could cause your device to respond slower, or not at all.
The good news is that the contact pad on the car key fob is simple to replace and is done with the help of an easy flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged, it will be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto shop to get the fob repaired.
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 the keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This can also affect the internals of your fob and could cause a malfunction. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your wallet or pocket in case you damage the one you own.
Check the battery first If your key fob's buttons aren't responding in the way they should. 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 hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is in good condition, the buttons may be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, you can test an alternative car key fob. This will help determine whether the issue is yours or a specific model. If the other fob works then it's likely your key fob has to be reprogrammed, or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is much more complex than some myths would suggest. The basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs need to be properly programmed in order to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as easy as pressing several keys. It's usually handled by the dealer.
Consult your owner's guide for more detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealers are capable of creating a brand new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. However some independent shops provide this service as well so make sure to look up reviews and prices prior to selecting the right shop.
Certain car models erase other fobs when they're changed. This means that you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This is an expensive proposition especially if you're only down to one functioning fob. It's always wise to have at minimum a spare mechanical key you can use to open the trunk and doors, even if it won't start the car.
If you do decide to attempt to reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a gruelling journey. There are many guides online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. A lot of these guides were created by people who have no experience in this area, and they're often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car key fob with just only a few clicks. This is a false claim.
The majority of key fobs are secured 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 should be able to find the button cell battery, which is typically a tiny watch battery that can be found in most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's usually easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
Replacement
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 your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob could be useful in the event that one is lost or taken.
The majority of modern key fobs have an incredibly small physical key in addition the electronics which makes them more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" even come with a remote starter. It's important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle.
car remote key repair use a small radio transmitter mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. When you press a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal unique to the car receiver. The receiver detects the signal and validates it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the car and begin it from a distance, without placing the key in the ignition or turning a lock.
If your fob's buttons aren't working or responding in a sporadic manner, they may have been damaged by water. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and examine for damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing an entirely new fob.
Before you purchase a replacement fob on the internet, seek out an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive however, you must research brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith others require special programming equipment that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.