Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can have issues over time, including the loss of functionality. Some issues may need professional attention, but many are fixable at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs have batteries with a flat design that are easy to find at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real problem when the battery of a key fob is dead. This is especially the case when you're away from home. There are methods to get your vehicle back on the road in case your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things to be sure of is whether the key fob's buttons still work. If they don't then the issue could be with the car's locks.
If the keys won't unlock try looking for a mechanical key slot concealed in your door handle trim or somewhere else on the vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, certain cars have an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. These apps are charged monthly subscription fees.
Also, you should 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, especially when you utilize its remote feature while watching TV or talking on the phone.
Holding the key fob right towards the start button could cause a key fob with an empty battery. This simple fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the fob battery. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It is possible that your key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob likely contains a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are covered with an electrically conducting film that wears down over time. The wear may cause your fob to react slower, or not at all.
The good news is that the contact pad inside the car key fob is simple to replace and it can be done with the help of a flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is badly damaged or broken in any way, it could be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not common for a key fob be thrown around, trampled upon, or exposed water. All of these can cause physical damage to the keys, such as bending or snapping them.
This could also cause internal damage to the fob, which could result in malfunction. This is why it's a good idea to carry a spare key fob in your pocket or wallet in the event that you break the one you already have.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding in the way they should, first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't a special type of electronic device - the majority of them use the same two-dollar batteries used in watches and hearing aids, which are readily available at hardware stores, drug stores, and online.
If the battery is functioning properly, the buttons may be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, try an alternative car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or a particular model. If the other fob functions then it's likely your key fob needs to be reset or perhaps replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car key fobs is more complex than some myths would suggest. The basic fobs function on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs have to be programmed correctly in order to be able to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it needs to be handled by the dealer.
The procedure for reprogramming the fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your vehicle, so it's important to read the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes have proprietary technology that only the dealership is capable of creating a new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs if they are reprogrammed. This means that you'll have to have additional fobs programmed by professionals. This can be costly particularly if you're down to just one working fob. It's always recommended to have at least one backup mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk, even if it won't start the car.
Be prepared for a gruelling experience if you opt to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are numerous guides available on the internet that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even state that you can program your car key fob in only a few clicks, which is very confusing.
The majority of key fobs are secured by a plastic clip that's easy to loosen, but the battery is inside the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pry it out using a tool. You should be able find the button cell battery. This is usually tiny batteries for watches that is available at most home improvement or pharmacies. It's generally simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first.
Replacement
If your car key fob is damaged or isn't functioning it is crucial to know that there are a few ways to address the issue. It may be possible to resolve the issue quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However, a more extensive repair might be required. A spare fob could be helpful in the event that one is stolen or lost.
Most modern key fobs contain the physical key in addition to the electronic component, making them both pricier and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Certain "smart" fobs also include a remote starter built-in. It's therefore important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to get a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter on circuit boards. By pressing a button the transmitter transmits an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the car from a distance, without the need to put the key in the ignition.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or operate intermittently it could indicate that they have been damaged by water or other causes. Read Even more could be able to fix the fob by taking it apart and looking for any damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can try reprogramming your fob or buying a new one.
Before buying a replacement key fob online, contact a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's important to research the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. Certain fobs can be programmed by an experienced locksmith and other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer can utilize.