Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs can be affected by issues such as loss of functionality. Some issues may need professional attention, however many can be fixed at home.
The first step is typically to replace the battery. The majority of fobs have flat watch-style batteries that are readily available at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If a key fob battery is dead, it could be a major inconvenience especially if you're far from home. There are solutions to get your vehicle back on the road if your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things you should check is whether the buttons on the key fob work. If they do, then the issue may be with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys do not unlock, there may be a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or elsewhere on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails there are some cars that have an app that can unlock doors remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example let owners unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps charge a monthly fee for subscription.
Also, make sure that your key fob doesn't take the car's battery away by sitting on them. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, especially when you use its remote features while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
The key fob should be held right towards the start button can sometimes start a key fob with a low battery. car key repair company 's a quick fix that will save you going to the dealer or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
If your key fob does not work try testing it in a vehicle with an electronic starter button. If it doesn't, it could be necessary to replace the fob battery. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob inside your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob is unable 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 an electronic circuit board that has "contact pads" for each button. These little pads are coated with an electrically conducting film that wears down over time. This wear can cause your fob to respond more slowly, or even not respond at all.
The pad that contacts car keys can be easily replaced with an flat-head screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed, it will be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto repair shop to get the fob repaired.
It's not unusual for a key fob to being dropped, trampled or even exposed to water. These incidents can result in physical damage, like breaking the keys and snapping them.
This could also cause internal damage to the fob that could lead to a malfunction. It is a good idea, so, always keep an extra fob in your wallet or pocket in case the one you're using is damaged.
Make sure the battery is charged first to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't working like they should. Key fobs do not require a special type of electronic device. They use the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at drug, hardware, and online stores.
If the battery is in good condition it is possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons still don't work, you can test a different car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob functions, then yours might need to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The world of fobs for car keys is more complicated than most myths suggest. Basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are specific to each vehicle. The fobs have to be programmed correctly for them to be able to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it needs to be handled by a dealer.
Consult your owner's guide for specific instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only the dealership is capable of creating a new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service as well, so be sure to look up reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs once they're programmed again. This means that you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by a professional. This can be costly especially if you're only just one functional fob. It's always recommended to have at minimum a spare mechanical key that you can use to open the trunk and doors, even if it won't start the car.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you choose to reprogram your fob by yourself. You'll be disappointed with the countless online guides that claim to be successful. Many of these guides were written by people who have no prior experience in this field, and they're often founded 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 battery is usually held in place by clips made of plastic, which can be removed easily. However, the circuit board contains the battery, so you'll need to remove the battery using the aid of a tool. You should be able to locate the button cell battery. This is usually tiny batteries for watches that can be purchased at any pharmacies or home improvement stores. Replacing the battery is usually simple, and it's always a good idea to test first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or non-functioning car key fob. It is possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However, a more extensive repair may be required. A spare fob is helpful in the event that one is lost or taken.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace because they contain the physical key as well as the electronic. Some "smart fobs" even include a remote starter. It's important to be aware that it could take an hour or more to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle.
Fobs utilize a small radio transmitter on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button the transmitter transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and checks it against preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance, without the need to insert the ignition key in.
If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or function intermittently it could mean that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You can fix the fob if you take it apart and look for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the problem, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing an entirely new one.
It is best to check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper, but you should study the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer can utilize.