How to Repair a Car Key Fob
Your key fob gets jostled around a lot, so the buttons may get stuck or broken. If necessary, you can give it a good cleaning and replace the battery.
Most cars are equipped with batteries that look like coins. You can buy at pharmacies and big box stores, as well as home improvement stores. However certain models require special programming equipment that is only available to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a compact and handy little device that makes entering your vehicle and launching it much easier than ever. But what happens if you push the button few times and your car doesn't respond? It's usually due to a dead or dying battery. Luckily, the battery is simple to replace. You can find replacements in auto parts stores, supermarkets, and some home improvement stores.
However there are other features that the key fob offers may not work. It could be due to mechanical issues or an electrical problem inside the vehicle or even a deprogramming error in the car's receiver. In these cases it's best to contact an expert.
Most manufacturers include a mechanical slot on the fob that can be used in the event of dead cells. In the majority of cases the key slot is hidden behind a cover that is attached to the handle of the fob. You can insert the actual key into the slot to open your doors and start your vehicle. Make sure to insert the key fob back into the slot once you have started the car.
If car key fob repairs happen to have a Ford car that has SYNC Connect, there's an additional method to start the car without using the key fob. The majority of SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles come with an additional "E-blade" inside the cupholder. This is a mechanical key that can be used to push the starter button should your key fob fails to start the vehicle. To get the most out of this feature, ensure that the battery in your car is charged and go through the owner's manual to find out what the procedure is.
If you're still experiencing issues with your car after changing the key fob battery it could be time to call an expert locksmith or your dealer to get the battery replaced or repair the fob. In certain cases the new battery could be used to program the key fob in your vehicle at the dealership or select Interstate All Battery Center stores. But this will only work when the circuit board and antennas are not damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are likely to experience an extensive amount of wear and tear over the course of their lives. They are prone to dropping and spend a lot time in pockets and purses. The jolting may cause internal components to loosen or become damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. This problem can be fixed with a few easy steps, but you may also need to consult a locksmith.
In addition to an inoperable battery The most frequent reason a car key fob will not work is because it needs new batteries. These little coins-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive, and it's not difficult to find them in hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also find videos that explain how to replace the battery for your key fob on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
It's also important to be aware that certain key fobs require a special procedure to enter the programming mode required to replace the battery. In these cases you'll need look up the owner's manual and/or an auto locksmith to ensure that you're following the correct procedure.
If the battery is dead, putting your key fob at extreme temperatures could cause it to stop working. In this instance you'll need to contact an automotive locksmith or dealer to obtain an alternative fob.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding, it could be that the contacts inside are worn out. These contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity-conducting film, but they can start to wear out over time due to repeated use. You can attempt to repair this by taking the key fob apart and placing a piece of metallic tape over the worn out contacts.
It is crucial to understand that some key fobs are extremely difficult to open. They can only be opened safely with specialized equipment available from a dealership. If you attempt to open it with the screwdriver or any other tool, it's possible you could damage the internal circuit board and pay an expense for repairs that is higher than you needed.
Circuit Board Issues
The circuit board may be the reason behind your key fob's not working in the same way it used to. The circuit board is a small electronic chip in the case. It transmits signals to your car, telling it to lock your doors, open the trunk and even switch off your ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your key fob won't be able to send these signals.
You can repair damaged circuit boards at home If you have some technical knowledge. Begin by taking the battery off and separate the rubber button and holder assembly from the circuit board. Use a cotton swab along with some rubbing alcohol to clean around the contacts and the plastic frame. This should remove any corrosion that is inhibiting the circuit board from transmitting signals.
After you've assembled the key fob, make sure it can enter its programming mode. Check your owner's guide for instructions. The majority of car manufacturers have videos online that will show you how to accomplish this. If you are not confident to do this and you are not sure how, you can bring your key fob to an expert locksmith who is knowledgeable about the model of your vehicle.
Some of the newer key fobs come with a receiver built in that allows you unlock your trunk, open your doors and switch on your ignition from an extended distance. Generally, these are much more reliable and work over a greater range. If your key fob does not work as far as it did in the past it could be due to an internal issue that isn't working or an antenna that isn't functioning properly.
If you're unable to get your key fob working, the most likely culprit is an inoperative battery. It's cheap and easy to replace. If the fob's buttons or circuit board has been damaged, you'll have to have it professionally repaired and changed to a new program. Many dealerships will provide this service however, you can find a service that specializes in the brand of your car.
Forgotten Key
If you've lost your car keys fob, it can be a nightmare. You can turn the house upside down by retracing all your steps and searching everywhere. This is a case of searching in drawers, bags and under couches. You'll find it eventually. However, the best way to avoid losing your key fob is to taking precautions. If you're prone to forgetfulness or even a touch of ADD Create multiple copies and hand them out to your family and acquaintances so that you don't be shivering and wailing for four hours if you lose your key fob.
Most cars come with key fobs that let you lock and unlock your doors and in some cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk. However, some of the more advanced models have even cooler features, such as the ability to summon your car at the press of one button. This feature is not available on all models however if your vehicle is one of the ones that can do it - the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance - then you're in good hands.
If car key fob repairs have an extra car key fob programmed for your vehicle, you can use it in the event you lose your original. You can also contact an automotive locksmith to design an electronic key fob that can be programmed to your vehicle. But before you do make contact with your dealer to see if they can offer the replacement key fob for you at a lower price.
If you don't have an extra key and you don't have a spare, the only way to start your car is to call an auto locksmith who will either replace your existing key fob or create an entirely new one. Dealers can also help with this however you'll need to bring your vehicle in along with evidence of ownership documents. These services are fairly inexpensive particularly when compared to the cost of a replacement key at the dealership.