Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may be affected by issues such as malfunction. While some issues might require professional attention, the majority can be fixed at home.
The first step is usually to replace the battery. Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find in hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If the battery for a key fob dies, it can be a major hassle, especially if you're away from home. There are methods to get your vehicle back on the road in case your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things you should examine is whether the key fob's buttons still work. If they do not then the issue could be with the car's locks.
If your keys do not unlock, you may find an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or in other places in your car (consult the 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 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 car's battery by resting on it. A dead fob will drain your battery fast particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you are watching.
Holding the key fob right to the car's start button can sometimes start the key fob that has a low battery. It's a simple fix that will save you a trip to the dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
repair car key remote can also find out whether your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the fob battery. It's a great idea to keep an extra key fob in your purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons are damaged. The key fob has an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" which are covered by an electrically conductor film. This film wears off over time. This wear could cause your device to respond less quickly, or not respond at all.
The good news is that the pad in the car key fob is simple to replace and it can be done by using a simple flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it may be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto repair shop to get the fob repaired.
It's not common for a key fob be thrown around, trampled upon, or exposed water. All of these can cause physical damage to keys, including bending or snapping them.
This could also cause internal damage to the fob and cause an issue. This is why it's always an ideal idea to keep an extra key fob in your purse or pocket in case you damage the one you own.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working to the extent they should, first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Remember that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device - the majority of them use the same two-dollar batteries used in watches and hearing aids that are readily accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and on the internet.
If the battery is fine it's possible that the buttons are dirty or worn down and can be easily cleaned using a moist cloth to wipe them clean. If the buttons still don't work, try another car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or a specific model. If the other fob is working it's likely that your key fob needs to be reprogrammed, or possibly replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths suggest. The basic fobs work on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs have to be properly programmed in order to be able to open and start the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it needs to be handled by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that makes sure only dealerships can design an entirely new fob and then sync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops 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 when they're changed, so you'll need any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This can be expensive especially if the fob has stopped working. It's always wise to have at minimum a spare mechanical key you can use to open the doors and trunk, even if it won't start the car.
If you attempt to reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a frustrating journey. You'll be disappointed by the countless online guides that promise success. Many of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated statements. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car key fob yourself with the click of a button. This is false.
The battery is typically held in place with clips made of plastic, which can be easily removed. However the circuit board is home to the battery, and you'll need to pry the battery out using a tool. You should be able to locate the button cell battery. This is usually tiny batteries for watches that can be purchased at any home improvement or pharmacies. The replacement of the battery is generally an easy process, but it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or damaged car key fob. A quick fix can be as easy as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, however a more extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob could be useful in the event one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace because they contain a physical key and electronics. Some "smart fobs" include remote starters. As such, it's important to know that it could take up to an hour to have an alternative key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a small radio transmitter on a circuitboard. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, which sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the vehicle from a distance without the need to put the key in the ignition.
If your fob's buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they may have been damaged by water. It is possible to repair the fob by taking it apart and examine for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't fix the issue, try reprogramming the fob, or buying another one.
Before you purchase a replacement fob on the internet, seek out an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper, but you should look into the reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a trusted locksmith, others require special equipment for programming that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.