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. While some issues may require professional attention, many can be fixed at home.
Change the battery is often the first step. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watches-style batteries that is easily available in hardware or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If the battery for a key fob is dead, it could be a major inconvenience especially if you're far from home. There are methods to get your vehicle back on the road if your keyless entry system has stopped working.
One of the first things you should examine is whether the buttons on your key fob function. If they do, then the issue may be in the locks of your car instead of the fob.
If your keys will not unlock, you may find an electronic slot in the trim around the door handles or on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work there are some cars that have an app that can unlock the doors remotely. For example, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to unlock the doors using smartphones. These apps are charged monthly subscription fees.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob does not drain the batteries of your car by being plugged into them. car key repair can drain your battery quickly, especially if it is used to control your phone or TV while you're watching.
A key fob that's low on battery can sometimes be started by holding it until you hit the start button. This simple fix could save you from a trip to your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in another vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it's not working the battery of the fob requires replacement. It's a good idea keep a spare key fob in your backpack or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start the car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. The key fob has a circuit with "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears off over time. This wear can make your fob respond less or not at all.
The good news is that the pad on a car key fob can be replaced easily, and is done with the help of a simple flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is badly damaged or smashed in any way, it could be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage, including breaking and snapping keys.
This could also alter the internals of the fob which could result in an issue. It's a good idea so, always keep an extra fob in your purse or pocket in case the one you currently have fails.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working to the extent they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good working condition. Remember that key fobs aren't a special type of electronic device - the majority of them use 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 functioning properly the buttons could be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, try another car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or a specific model. If the other fob functions then it's likely your key fob has to be reprogrammed, or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car keys fobs is much more complex than many myths suggest. The basic fobs work by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs have to be properly programmed in order to be able to unlock and start the car. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing several keys. It is usually handled by the dealer.
The procedure for reprogramming the fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your car, so it's important to consult the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealers are capable of creating a brand new key fob and then resync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices prior to selecting a shop.
Certain car models erase other fobs when they are reprogrammed. This means that you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by a professional. This is a costly proposition, especially if you're down to just one working fob. Even in the event that the mechanical key will not start the vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup option that can open the trunk and doors.
If you do attempt to reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a difficult journey. There are numerous guides available online that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides are written by people with no prior experience in this field, and they're often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car's key fob with just the click of a button. This is a false claim.
car key repairs near me are secured by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, which means you'll have to carefully pry it out using a tool. You should be able to locate the button battery. It's typically tiny batteries for a watch that is available at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally simple, and it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If your car key fob has been damaged or has stopped working it is important to know that there are a few ways to address the issue. It's as easy as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, however a more extensive repair might be required. A spare fob could be useful in the event one is lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs include a small physical key, in addition to the electronic component they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Certain "smart" fobs even come with a remote starter. It's important to know that it could take an hour or more to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, and it transmits a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and checks it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to unlock the vehicle and start it from a distance without putting the key in the ignition or turning a lock.
If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or function intermittently, it can indicate that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You could be able to repair the fob by disassembling it and inspecting for any broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or getting an entirely new one.
It is recommended to consult a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are many aftermarket fobs 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 reputable locksmith, other models require special equipment for programming that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.