Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs could have issues, such as a loss of functionality. While some issues might require professional attention, the majority are fixable at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which is easily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly issue when a key fob's battery goes out. This is especially true when you're away from home. There are solutions to get your car back on the road if your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things you should be sure of is to determine if the buttons on the key fob function. If they do, then the problem may lie in the locks of your car instead of the fob.
If your keys don't work, look for a mechanical key slot concealed in the door handle trim or somewhere else on the car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some vehicles come with an app that allows you to unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors with their smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob does not take the car's battery away by being plugged into them. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, particularly when you utilize its remote features while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
The key fob should be held right towards the start button could cause a key fob with low battery. This simple fix could save you from having to visit your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, you may need to replace the battery on your fob. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob inside a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. The key fob may contain circuit boards with "contact pads" for each button, and these little pads are coated with a conductor of electricity that wears down over time. This wear could cause your device to respond slow or not respond at all.
The good news is that the contact pad on the car key fob can be replaced easily, and is done using a simple flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob has been badly damaged or smashed in any way, it may 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 uncommon for a key fob be thrown around, trampled upon or even exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them.
This can also cause internal damage to the fob and lead to an issue. This is why it's an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob in your pocket or wallet in case you accidentally damage the one you own.
If your key fob's buttons aren't responding to the extent they should, first verify that the battery is in good working condition. Remember that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device; they're typically powered by the same two-dollar batteries that are used in watches and hearing aids, which are readily available at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online.
If the battery is in good condition it is possible that the buttons are worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If electronic car key repair near me don't work, try an alternative car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or an specific model. If the other key fob works, then yours might need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs work by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be properly programmed in order to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons and with very few exceptions it has to be done by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealerships are capable of creating a brand new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may also offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting the right shop.
Some car models will erase all other fobs if they are programmed again. This means that you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by an expert. This can be expensive, especially if your fob has stopped working. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start your car, it's a good idea to have a backup key that can open the doors and trunk.
If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a frustrating journey. You'll be disappointed with the countless online guides that promise success. Many of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some of them even state that you can program your own car key fob with just a few clicks, which is very false.
The battery is usually held in place by a plastic clip, which can be removed easily. However the circuit board houses the battery, and you will need to carefully pry the battery out using a tool. You should be able to locate the button battery. It's typically an insignificant battery for a watch, which is available at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally a straightforward procedure, and it's always worthwhile to try first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
If a car key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning, it's important to know there are a few ways to address the issue. It may be possible to resolve the issue quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair might be required. It's also beneficial to have a spare key fob in case one gets lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace because they contain the physical key as well as the electronic. Some "smart fobs" even include a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to know that it can take up to an hour for a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter that is mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, which sends an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This lets the driver unlock the car and start it from a distance without placing the key in the ignition or turning the lock.
If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or work sporadically, it can indicate that they have been damaged by water or other causes. It is possible to repair the fob by removing it and looking for any damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the issue, try reprogramming the fob or purchasing an entirely new fob.
You should check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are many aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's important to look up the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them. While some fobs can be replaced by a trusted locksmith, others require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.