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 a loss of functionality. Some issues may need professional attention, however many can be fixed at home.
The first step is generally to replace the battery. Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real inconvenience when the battery of a key fob goes out. This is especially the case when you are far from home. However, there are options to get back on the road when your car's keyless entry doesn't work.
One of the first things to be sure of is to determine if the buttons on the key fob work. If they do not then the issue could be with the locks on your car.
If your keys will not unlock, there may be an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or elsewhere in your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some vehicles have an app that allows you to unlock it remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for instance let owners unlock their doors using smartphones. However, these apps require an annual cost.
You should also check that your key fob does not take the car's battery away by sitting on them. A dead key fob can 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 to the car's start button may cause the key fob that has an empty battery. This simple fix could save you from a trip to your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers.
If your key fob won't work You can test it in a vehicle with a push-button starter. If it fails, the fob battery probably requires replacement. It's a great idea to keep a spare key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start your vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons are damaged. The key fob has a circuit with "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductory film. This film wears off over time. This wear can cause your device to respond less quickly, or not to respond at all.
The good news is that the contact pad inside the key fob of a car is easy to replace, and can be done so with the help of a flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob has been badly damaged or broken in any way, it could be more difficult to open the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not uncommon for a key fob being dropped, trampled or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage, including bending and snapping the keys.
This could also affect the internals of your fob and could cause an issue. This is why it's an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob inside your wallet or pocket in case you damage the one you own.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working to the extent they should, first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device; they're typically powered by the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches that are readily accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and online.
If the battery is in good condition, it's likely that the buttons are just worn down or dirty, and can be easily cleaned using a damp cloth to wipe them down. 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 key fob works, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car keys fobs is more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. Basic fobs function with radio frequency signals that are specific to each vehicle. The fobs must be properly programmed in order for them to be able to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately it's not as easy as pressing a few buttons, and with very few exceptions it must be handled by a dealer.
The procedure of reprogramming a fob depends on the make and model year of your car, so it's important to consult the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that ensures only dealerships can design a new fob and re-sync it with your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service too so make sure to review reviews and prices prior to selecting the right shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs when they're programmed again. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by a professional. This can be expensive especially if the fob has stopped working. It's always wise to have a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it's not able to 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 but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides are created by people who have no prior experience in this field and often are founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car's key fob yourself with only a few clicks. This is misleading.
The majority of key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. Once you've got inside, you should be able locate the button cell battery which is typically a small watch battery that can be purchased in most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's typically easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole device, you should try it first.
Replacement
If your car key fob is damaged or fails to function, it's important to know there are several options to remedy the problem. A quick fix can be as simple as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, however a more extensive repair may be needed. It is also helpful to have a spare key fob in case one is lost or stolen.
The majority of modern key fobs have an incredibly small physical key in addition to the electronic components which makes them more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart" fobs include a remote starter built-in. It's important to know that it can take an hour or more to cut and program an alternative fob for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver using a tiny radio transmitter built into a circuitboard. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, and it transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver receives the signal and verifies it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance without the need to insert the key in the ignition.
If broken car key repair on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or work sporadically it could mean that they've been damaged due to water or other elements. It is possible to repair the fob by disassembling it and examining it for broken or unresponsive buttons. If this does not solve the problem, try reprogramming it or purchasing an entirely new fob.
It is best to check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper but you should research brands and read reviews before attempting to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a trusted locksmith, others require specialized equipment to program them that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.