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 an inability to function. While some issues may require professional attention, many are fixable at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watches-style batteries that are easily found in hardware or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly issue when the battery of a key fob goes out. remote key fob repair is especially true if you are away from home. There are solutions to get your car back on the road if you're keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to check is if the buttons on the key fob are still working. If they do, the problem may lie with the car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys won't unlock, you may find a mechanical slot within the trim around your door handles or elsewhere on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, certain cars have an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to open the doors using smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly cost.
Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by being plugged into it. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, particularly when you use its remote feature while watching TV or talking on the phone.
Holding the key fob right up to your car's start button may cause the key fob that has a low battery. It's a quick solution that could save you a trip to the dealership or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by testing it in another vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it's not working, the fob battery probably requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob in the bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It is possible that your key fob is damaged and has a button. Your key fob is likely to have a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button, and these tiny pads are covered with an electricity conducting film that wears away over time. This wear can cause your fob to respond slow or not respond at all.
The pad that contacts the car keyfob is easily replaced using the flat-head screwdriver. If, however, the key fob has been badly smashed or harmed in any way, it could be more difficult to open the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to the keys, including bending or snapping them.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob, which could result in malfunction. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in the event that you damage the one you own.
Check the battery first to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't responding as they should. Be aware that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device - they're typically powered by the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids that are readily available at hardware stores, drug stores, and online.
If the battery is functioning properly the buttons could be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine whether the problem is related to yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other fob works, it's likely that your key fob needs to be reprogrammed, or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car key fobs is more complex than some myths would suggest. The basic fobs work on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to allow unlocking and starting the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as simple as pressing several keys. It's usually done by the dealer.
The process of reprogramming a fob depends on the make and model year of your car It is therefore essential to consult the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes have proprietary technology that only dealerships are capable of creating a new key fob and then resync it to your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service too and you should check reviews and prices before selecting the shop.
Certain models of cars erase all other fobs if they're reprogrammed. This means that you'll have to have any additional fobs programmed by a professional. This can be costly, especially if your fob isn't working anymore. It's always recommended to have at minimum a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it doesn't start the car.
If you decide to try and reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a gruelling journey. There are numerous guides available online that promise success, but you'll likely be disappointed. A lot of these guides were written by people with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car's key fob by yourself in just a few clicks. This is false.
The majority of key fobs are held in place by a clip made of plastic which is easy to remove, however, the battery is within the circuit board, and you'll have to carefully pry it out using a tool. Once you get inside, you should be able locate the button cell battery which is usually a small watch battery that can be purchased at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's typically simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the entire unit, it's worth trying first.
Replacement
If your car key fob is damaged or fails to function it is important to know there are several ways to remedy the problem. It is possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair might be required. It can also be helpful to keep a spare fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs include a small physical key in addition to the electronic component which makes them more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart" fobs even come with a remote starter. It's important to understand that it can take an hour or more to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a tiny radio transmitter on a circuitboard. By pressing a button the transmitter emits an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the car and begin it from a distance, without inserting the key into the ignition or turning the lock.
If your key fob buttons aren't working or responding intermittently, they may be damaged by water. You may be able to fix the fob by removing it and examining it for broken or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing a new one.
Before buying a replacement key fob on the internet, seek out an expert locksmith or your local dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available less expensive, but it's crucial to study the brands and read reviews before trying to program them. Some fobs can be changed by a locksmith who is reputable however, other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer can utilize.