Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs may experience issues with time, like the loss of functionality. Some issues may need professional attention, but most can be resolved at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs have flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly inconvenience when a key fob's battery dies. This is especially true if you are away from home. There are ways to get your vehicle back on the road if your keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing you should check is if the buttons on the key fob are still working. If they do, the problem may lie in the locks of your car instead of the fob.
If your keys do not unlock, you might find a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or elsewhere on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some cars come with an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example let owners unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps are charged monthly subscription fees.
Also, make sure that your key fob does not drain the batteries of your car by resting on them. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, particularly if you use its remote feature while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
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 dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, the fob battery probably needs replacement. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start your car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons is damaged. car remote key repair near me has a circuit with "contact pads" which are covered by an electrically conductive film. The film wears away over time. The wear may cause your device to respond slower, or not respond at all.
The pad that contacts car keys can be easily replaced with a flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is badly damaged or broken in any way, it might be more difficult to open the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage, such as breaking the keys and snapping them.
This could also affect the internals of the fob and could cause an issue. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra key fob in your purse or pocket in case you damage the one you own.
Make sure the battery is charged first If your key fob's buttons aren't responding in the way they should. Key fobs do not require a special type of electronic device. They are powered by the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is in good condition it's likely that the buttons are worn down or dirty and can be easily cleaned using a damp cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, you can test a different key fob to see whether the problem is with yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob functions, then yours might need to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs must be programmed correctly 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 process of reprogramming a fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of the car you own and it's essential to consult the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes have proprietary technology that only the dealership is capable of creating a brand new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so check reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs when they're changed. This means you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by an expert. This is a costly proposition especially if you're only just one functional fob. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start the vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.
If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob on your own be prepared for a frustrating journey. There are countless guides on the internet that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your own car key fob in just a few clicks, which can be very false.
The majority of key fobs are held in place by a clip made of plastic that is easy to remove however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, so you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. You should be able to locate the button cell battery. This is usually an insignificant battery for watches that is available at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically an easy process, but it's always worthwhile to try this first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or malfunctioning car key fob. 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. It is also helpful to have a spare key fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs contain the physical key in addition to the electronic component which makes them more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" include a remote starter. It's therefore important to be aware that it could take up to an hour to get a new key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which transmits an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver receives the signal and verifies it against 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 fail to respond or work sporadically it could mean that they have been damaged by water or other factors. You could be able to fix the fob by removing it and inspecting for any broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing an entirely new fob.
It is recommended to consult a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's essential to look up the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them. While certain fobs can be repaired by a trusted locksmith, other models require special programming equipment that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.