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. Certain issues might require professional attention, but most can be resolved at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs use batteries with a flat design that are readily available at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
When a key fob battery dies, it can be a major hassle, especially if you're away from home. There are solutions to get your vehicle back on the road if your keyless entry system has stopped working.
The first thing to test is to see if the buttons on the fob still work. If they do, the issue may be with the car's locks instead of the fob.
If the keys won't unlock you need to look for a key slot with a mechanical lock hidden in the 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 unlock the doors using smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly cost.
Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by sitting on it. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, particularly if you use its remote feature while watching TV or talking on the phone.
A key fob that's low on battery can sometimes be activated by bringing it right up to the start button. This simple fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it fails the battery of the fob needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob doesn't have the ability to open doors or start your vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons is damaged. Your key fob likely contains a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are coated with a conductor of electricity that wears away over time. This wear can cause your device to respond slower or not at all.
The good news is that the pad in a car key fob is easy to replace, and is done with the help of a simple flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged it may be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto shop to repair the fob.
It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. These incidents can cause physical damage, such as bending and snapping the keys.
This could also alter the internals of the fob and could cause malfunction. It's a good idea therefore, to always carry an extra fob in your wallet or pocket in the event that the one you currently have fails.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't working to the extent they should, first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Remember that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device - they're typically powered by the same two-dollar batteries that are used in hearing aids and watches that are readily accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and on the internet.
If auto key repair near me is working it's likely that the buttons are just worn down or dirty and can be cleaned by using a damp cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, you can test a different key fob to determine if the problem is with yours, or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other fob is working, it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed, or possibly replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. Basic fobs work with radio frequency signals that are specific to each car. The fobs have to be properly programmed in order to be able to be able to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons, and with very few exceptions it has to be done by a dealer.
Refer to the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that makes sure only the dealership can create the new fob and sync it with your vehicle. However some independent shops provide this service too so make sure to look up reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs when they're programmed again. This means that you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by an expert. This is an expensive proposition, especially if you're down to just one working fob. It is always advisable 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.
Be prepared for a difficult experience if you choose to reprogram your fob yourself. You'll be disappointed by the countless online guides that claim to be successful. Many of these guides were written by people who have no experience in this area and are often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even claim that you can program your own car key fob in just a few clicks, which is very misleading.
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 pry it out using a device. You should be able find the button cell battery. This is usually tiny batteries for a watch, which you can purchase at most home improvement or pharmacies. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
Replacement
There are many methods to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. An easy fix could be as simple as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but a more in-depth repair may be needed. It is also helpful to have a spare key fob in case one gets lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace since they have a physical key along with electronics. Some "smart" fobs also have a built-in remote starter. As such, it's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour for a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which transmits a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver receives the signal and validates it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and start it from a distance, without inserting the key into the ignition or turning a lock.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or operate intermittently it could mean that they have been damaged by water or other factors. It is possible to fix the fob by disassembling it and examining it for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this does not solve the issue, you can try reprogramming it or purchasing an entirely new fob.
Before buying a replacement key fob online, seek out a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to make sure it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are many aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's important to research the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. While some fobs are able to be replaced by a trusted locksmith, other models require special programming equipment that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.