Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may experience problems such as loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, but most are fixable at home.
Change the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watches-style batteries that are easily found at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real issue when the battery of a key fob is dead. This is especially the case when you're away from home. There are ways to get your car back on the road in case you're keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to test is if the buttons on the key fob are still working. If they do, the problem may lie with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys do not unlock, you might find a mechanical 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 work there are some cars that have an app that lets you unlock the doors remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to open the doors using smartphones. These apps charge a monthly subscription fee.
Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle'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 speaking on the phone.
Holding the key fob right to the car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with low battery. It's a quick solution that could save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
If your key fob does not work try testing it in a vehicle that has a push-button starter. If it's not working it's likely that the battery needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob inside your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that the key fob has a damaged button. The key fob may contain an electronic circuit board that has "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are covered with a conductor of electricity that wears away over time. The wear may cause your device to respond slower, or not respond at all.
The contact pad on a car keyfob can be easily replaced with the flat-head screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged, it will be difficult to open. You'll have to take it to an auto shop to have the fob repaired.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This could also cause internal damage to the fob that could cause malfunction. This is why it's always a good idea to carry a spare key fob in your wallet or pocket in the event that you break the one you have.
Check the battery first if your key fob buttons aren't working like they should. Remember that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device; most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries that are used in watches and hearing aids, which are readily accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and on the internet.
If the battery is fine it's possible that the buttons are worn down or dirty, and can be cleaned using a moist cloth to clean them. If the buttons do not work, you can test an alternative car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or a particular model. If the other fob works it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reset or perhaps replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car key fobs is much more complicated than the myths suggest. The basic fobs operate using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as easy as pressing several keys. It's usually done by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that makes sure only dealers can create a new fob and re-sync it to your vehicle. However some independent shops provide this service too so make sure to review reviews and prices prior to selecting the shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs once they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll need to get any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be expensive particularly if your fob has stopped working. Even when the mechanical key doesn't start the vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup key that can open the trunk and doors.
If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a gruelling journey. There are many guides online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. A majority of these guides were written by people with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some even claim that you can program your own car key fob with just a few clicks, which can be very confusing.
The battery is usually secured with an elastic clip that is easily removed. However you can try this out is home to the battery, so you will need to carefully pry the battery out using an instrument. Once auto key repair got inside, you should be able locate the button cell battery, which is typically a small watch battery that is available at a variety of pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically a straightforward procedure, and it's always worth trying first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
There are several methods to fix a broken or non-functioning car key fob. It's as simple as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more thorough repair might be required. It can also be helpful to keep a spare fob in case one is 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" even include remote starters. It's therefore important to be aware that it can take up to an hour for a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver by using a small radio transmitter built into the circuit board. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which transmits a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the vehicle from a distance without having to put the ignition key in.
If your fob's buttons aren't working or responding intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You could be able to repair the fob by taking it apart and inspecting for any broken or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can try reprogramming your fob or purchasing an entirely new one.
Before buying a replacement key fob online, you should contact an expert locksmith or your local dealer to make sure it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. You can find aftermarket fobs less expensive, but it's crucial to study the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them. While some fobs can be replaced by a reputable locksmith others require specialized programming equipment that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.