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 might require professional attention, however many are fixable at home.
The first step is usually to replace the battery. Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries which are easily found at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
When a key fob battery fails, it can be a major inconvenience particularly if you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road even when your car's keyless entry isn't working.
The first thing to test is if the buttons on the key fob are working. If they do, then the issue may be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys won't unlock, there may be a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or in other places on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this doesn't work, some cars have an app that lets you open doors remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile Application and myMazda apps, for instance allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly cost.
You should also check that your key fob doesn't drain the batteries of your car by being plugged into them. A dead fob will drain your battery quickly particularly if it's used to control the TV or phone while you are watching.
The key fob should be held right up to your car's start button could cause a key fob with a low battery. It's a quick solution that could 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 that has push-button ignition. If it doesn't, 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 a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start the vehicle 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 little pads are coated with a conductor of electricity that wears down over time. This wear can cause your device to respond slower or not at all.
The good news is that the contact pad on a car key fob is easy to replace, and is done by using a flathead screwdriver. If the key fob is severely damaged or broken in any way, it might be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll be required to take the fob into an auto repair shop for repairs.
It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on or exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to the keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob, which could lead to a malfunction. This is why it's always an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob in your pocket or wallet in case you break the one you have.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working as they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good condition. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device; most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries that are used in watches and hearing aids and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online.
If the battery is in good condition it's possible that the buttons are dirty or worn down and can be cleaned using a moist cloth to wipe them clean. If the buttons still don't work, you can test an alternative car key fob. This will help determine whether the issue is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob works it is possible that yours needs to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of fobs for car keys is more complex than many myths suggest. The basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs must be properly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as simple as pressing a few keys. It is usually handled by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes, use proprietary technology that guarantees only dealers can create a new fob and re-sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices before selecting the right shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs if they are programmed again. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by professionals. This can be costly especially if you're only just one functional fob. It's always wise to have at minimum a spare mechanical key you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it's not able to start the car.
If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a gruelling journey. You'll be disappointed by the numerous online guides that promise success. A lot of these guides were written by people with no knowledge of this field and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob yourself with the click of a button. This is a false claim.
The majority of key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that is easy to remove but the battery is inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. You should be able to find the button battery. It's typically a small battery for watches that you can purchase at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the entire unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
Replacement
If the car key fob is damaged or has stopped working, it's important to know that there are several ways to address the issue. It's as simple as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more in-depth repair might be required. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in case one is lost or stolen.
The majority of modern key fobs have an incredibly small physical key, in addition to the electronic component which makes them more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" even include a remote starter. It's important to know that it could take up to an hour to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuitboard. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, and it transmits a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the vehicle from a distance without having to put the ignition key in.
If your fob's buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they may have been damaged by water. You may be able to repair the fob by removing it and looking for any damaged or unresponsive buttons. If this does not solve the problem, try reprogramming the fob or purchasing a new fob.
It is best to check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. remote car key repair near me purchased from a third party can be cheaper, but you should look into the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them yourself. While some fobs are able to be replaced by a reputable locksmith other models require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.