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 the loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, but most can be fixed at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watch-style battery, which is easily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If a key fob battery fails, it can be a huge inconvenience, especially if you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry isn't working.
The first thing to check is to see if the buttons on the fob are working. If they do, the issue could be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys don't work, look for a mechanical key slot concealed in the door handle trim or in another location on the vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, some cars come with an app that allows you to unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile Application and myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps are charged a monthly subscription fee.
Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by being plugged into it. A dead key fob can drain your battery quickly, especially if it is used to control the TV or phone while you are watching.
A key fob that's just low on battery can be activated by holding it up to the start button. This simple fix could save you from a trip to your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
If your key fob does not work, you can test it in a vehicle that has an electronic starter button. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the battery on your fob. This is why it's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in the bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob doesn't have the ability to open doors or start your car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons are damaged. Your key fob is likely to have a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are coated with an electrically conducting film which wears down over time. This wear can make your fob respond slower or not at all.
The good news is that the pad on the car key fob can be replaced easily, and it can be done using a simple flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged, it will be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto shop to get the fob repaired.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be thrown around, trampled upon or even exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them.
It could also affect the internals of your fob, which could lead to malfunction. This is why it's always a good idea to carry a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in case you damage the one you own.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working as they should, you should first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Key fobs don't require any special electronic device. They use the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is fine it's likely that the buttons are just worn down or dirty, and can be cleaned using a damp cloth to wipe them clean. If the buttons still don't work, try another car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or an specific model. If the other key fob is working it is possible that yours needs to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car keys fobs is more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs operate by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs must be programmed correctly in order for them to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons and with only a few exceptions it must be handled by a dealer.
car keys repair for reprogramming the fob is based on the model and model year of your car It is therefore essential to read the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that makes sure only the dealership can create the new fob and sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so check reviews and prices before choosing the right shop.
Certain car models erase other fobs when they are changed. This means that you'll have to have any extra fobs programmed by professionals. This can be costly particularly if your fob isn't working anymore. Even in the event that the mechanical key will not work to start your vehicle, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a gruelling experience if you opt to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are many guides on the internet that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. A lot of these guides were written by people who have no prior experience in this field, and they're often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car's key fob with just only a few clicks. This is misleading.
Most key fobs are held in place by a plastic clip which is easy to remove, but the battery is inside the circuit board, which means you'll have to carefully pry it out using a tool. You should be able to find the button battery. It's usually an insignificant battery for a watch that can be purchased at any pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first.
Replacement
If your car key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning, it's important to know there are a few ways to address the issue. It may be possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However an extensive repair may be needed. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace because they contain a physical key and electronic. Certain "smart" fobs even include a remote starter built-in. Therefore, it's important to know that it could take up to an hour to have an alternative key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, which transmits an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and begin it from a distance, without placing the key in the ignition or turning the lock.
If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or function intermittently it could mean that they've been damaged due to water or other elements. You could be able to fix the fob by removing it and examining it for broken or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, 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 ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive, but you should research reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer is able to use.