Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can have issues with time, like an inability to function. Certain issues might require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watch-style battery, which can be easily found at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
When a key fob battery fails, it can be a major inconvenience, especially if you're away from home. There are ways to get your car back on the road if you're keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to check is if the buttons on the fob are working. If they do, the problem may lie with the car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys do not unlock, you may find a mechanical slot within the trim around your door handles or in other places on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work, some cars have an app that allows you to unlock the doors remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for instance allow owners to open their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps require a monthly cost.
You should also make sure 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 when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone.
Holding the key fob right up to your car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with an empty battery. It's a quick solution that could save you going to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, the fob battery probably requires replacement. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that your key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob is likely to have a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These little pads are coated with an electrically conducting film that wears away over time. The wear may cause your device to respond less or not at all.
The good news is that the pad on the key fob of a car is easy to replace, and can be done so using an easy flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged, 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 uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. These incidents can cause physical damage, such as bending and snapping the keys.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob that could lead to a malfunction. This is why it's always a good idea to carry a spare key fob in your purse or pocket in the event that you damage the one you own.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working to the extent they should, first verify that the battery is in good working condition. Be aware that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device - they're typically powered by the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches, which are readily accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and online.
If the battery is in good condition the buttons could be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, you can test an alternative car key fob. This will help determine whether the issue is yours or a particular model. If the other fob works, it's likely that your key fob has to be reprogrammed, or possibly replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is more complicated than the myths suggest. The basic fobs work by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs must be properly programmed to allow unlocking and starting the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it needs to be handled by the dealer.
The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of your car It is therefore essential to consult the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealerships are capable of creating a brand new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may also offer this service, so check reviews and prices prior to selecting a shop.
Some car models will erase all other fobs once they are changed. This means you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by an expert. This can be costly, especially if you're down to just one working fob. Even when the mechanical key doesn't start the vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you choose to reprogram your fob yourself. You'll be disappointed by countless online guides that claim to be successful. A majority of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks. This is misleading.
The battery is usually held in place with clips made of plastic, which can be easily removed. However the circuit board houses the battery, so you'll need to remove the battery with a tool. Once you get inside, you'll be able to find the button cell battery, which is usually a small watch battery that is available at a variety of pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's usually easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
car key repair shop near me
There are several ways to fix a broken or damaged car key fob. It's as easy as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but a more in-depth repair may be needed. A spare fob can be useful in the event that one is stolen or lost.
The majority of modern key fobs have the physical key, in addition to the electronic components, making them both pricier and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Certain "smart" fobs also have a built-in remote starter. It's important to know that it can take up to an hour to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter on a circuitboard. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, and it transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to unlock the vehicle and start it from a distance, without inserting the key into the ignition or turning a lock.
If your fob's buttons aren't working or responding intermittently, they may have been damaged by water. You may be able to repair the fob by taking it apart and examining it for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob, or buying a new one.
It is recommended to consult a local auto dealer or a locksmith before 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 study the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith, other models require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.