Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can have issues with time, like the loss of functionality. While some issues may require professional attention, the majority are fixable at home.
Change the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries, which are easily found at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
When a key fob battery fails, it can be a huge inconvenience especially if you're far from home. There are solutions to get your car back on the road in case you're keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing you should check is to see if the buttons on the key fob are working. If they do, the issue could be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys will not unlock, there may be an electronic slot in the trim around the door handles or in your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some vehicles have an application that lets you unlock it remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to unlock the doors using smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly fee.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining the 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.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with low battery. It's a simple fix that can save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out if your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, it could be necessary 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 unlock doors or start the car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons is damaged. Your key fob is likely to have a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are covered with an electrically conducting film that wears away over time. This wear could cause your fob to respond slower or not at all.
The contact pad on the car keyfob is easily replaced with the flat-head screwdriver. If, however, the key fob has been badly smashed or harmed in any way, it may be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto shop for repair.
It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to the keys, such as bending or snapping them.
This can also affect the internals of the fob and could cause an issue. This is why it's always a good idea to carry a spare key fob in your pocket or wallet in case you accidentally damage the one you own.
Check the battery first if your key fob buttons are not responding as they should. Key fobs do not require an electronic device. They use the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is good, the buttons may be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can test 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 fob is working then it's likely your key fob has to be reprogrammed, or perhaps replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The hidden 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 cars. The fobs need to be programmed correctly in order to be able to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing several keys. It is usually handled by the dealer.
The procedure of reprogramming a fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your car It is therefore essential to refer to the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that ensures only the dealership can create the new fob and sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops may also offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices before selecting a shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs if they are reprogrammed. This means you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by a professional. This can be expensive especially if the fob isn't working anymore. It's always wise to have at least one backup mechanical key that you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it's not able to start the car.
If you decide to attempt to reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a gruelling journey. You'll be disappointed with the numerous guides on the internet that claim to be successful. A majority of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob with just only a few clicks. This is a false claim.
The battery is typically held in place with an elastic clip that is easily removed. However the circuit board houses the battery, so you will need to carefully remove the battery with an instrument. Once you've gotten inside, you'll be able to find the button cell battery which is usually a small watch battery that can be found in most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's typically easy 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's important to know that there are several options to address the issue. It could be possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However, a more extensive repair may be required. remote key fob repair could be useful in the event one is lost or taken.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace since they have a physical key as well as the electronic. Some "smart fobs" even include a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to have a new key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a tiny radio transmitter that is mounted on the circuit board. By pressing a button, the transmitter transmits an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance without having to put the key in the ignition.
If your key fob buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they may have been damaged by water. You may be able to fix the fob by disassembling it and examining it for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, try reprogramming your fob or purchasing an entirely new one.
Before you purchase a replacement fob online, seek out a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to confirm that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper however, you must look into the reviews and brands before trying to program them yourself. While some fobs can be replaced by a trusted locksmith, other models require special equipment for programming that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.