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 a loss of functionality. While some issues may require professional attention, many are fixable at home.
The first step is generally to change the battery. Most fobs utilize batteries with a flat design that are readily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
When a key fob battery dies, it can be a huge inconvenience especially if you're far from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road the vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things you should check is to determine if the buttons on the key fob work. If they do not then the issue could be with the locks on your car.
If your keys do not unlock, there may be a mechanical slot within the trim around your door handles or on your vehicle (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 it remotely. For remote key repair , the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app permit owners to open the doors using smartphones. However, these apps require a monthly cost.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob does not take the car's battery away by being plugged into them. A dead key fob can drain your battery, especially if you use its remote feature while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with an empty battery. It's a simple solution that could save you a trip to the dealer or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by testing it in a different vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, it could be necessary to replace the battery in your fob. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob inside the 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" which are covered by an electrically conductor film. The film wears away over time. This wear could cause your fob to react less quickly, or not to respond at all.
The contact pad on car keys can be easily replaced using a flat-head screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged it will be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto repair shop to have the fob repaired.
It's not unusual for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them.
It could also affect the internals of the fob and could cause an issue. It's a good idea, so, always keep a spare fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you're using fails.
If your key fob's buttons aren't responding in the way they should, first verify that the battery is in good working condition. Keep in mind that key fobs don't come with a particular kind of electronic device; the majority of them use the same two-dollar batteries used in watches and hearing aids and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and online.
If the battery is in good condition, the buttons may be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine whether the issue is related to yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob is working, then yours might need to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car key fobs is much more complicated than the myths would suggest. The basic fobs function on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs have to be properly programmed in order to be able to unlock and start the car. Reprogramming a key fob is not as easy as pressing several keys. It's usually done by the dealer.
Consult your owner's guide for specific instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealerships are capable of creating a new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may also offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs after they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is an expensive proposition especially if you're only down to just one working fob. It's always wise to have at minimum a backup mechanical key that you can use to unlock the trunk and doors even if it doesn't start the car.
If you decide to try and reprogram your fob on your own be prepared for a difficult journey. There are numerous guides available online that promise to work but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car's key fob with just a few clicks. This is false.
Most key fobs are secured by a clip made of plastic that is easy to remove however, the battery is within the circuit board, so you'll need to carefully pry it out with a tool. You should be able to locate the button cell battery. It's usually an insignificant battery for a watch that you can purchase at most home improvement or pharmacies. It's usually simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first.
Replacement
If the car key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning it is crucial to know there are several ways to remedy the problem. It is 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 required. A spare fob can be helpful in the event that one is stolen or lost.
Most modern key fobs contain a small physical key in addition the electronics which makes them more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" even include remote starters. Therefore, it's important to understand that it can take up to an hour to have an alternative key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter that is mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance without the need to insert the key in the ignition.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or operate intermittently it could indicate that they have been damaged due to water or other elements. It is possible to fix the fob by removing it and looking for any damaged or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the problem, try reprogramming or buying a new fob.
Before you purchase a replacement fob online, seek out a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to confirm that it is compatible with your vehicle's security systems. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive, but you should study the brands and read reviews before trying to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a trusted locksmith, others require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.