Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs may experience issues over time, such as the loss of functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, but most are fixable at home.
The first step is usually to change the battery. The majority of fobs have flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real problem when the battery of a key fob is dead. This is particularly true if you are away from home. There are ways to get your car back on the road in case your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things you should examine is whether the buttons on the key fob function. If they aren't it could be a problem in the car's locks.
If your keys won't unlock, you may find an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this doesn't work certain cars come with an app that lets you unlock doors remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for instance, allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. car key remote repair near me charge a monthly subscription fee.
Also, make sure whether your key fob won't take the car's battery away by being plugged into them. A dead fob will drain your battery fast particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you are watching.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button could cause an ignition key fob with low battery. This simple fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
If your key fob does not work, you can test it in a vehicle with an electronic starter button. If it doesn't work, the fob battery probably 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 is damaged and has a button. Your key fob contains an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" which are covered by an electrically conductory film. The film wears away over time. The wear may cause your fob to respond less quickly, or not respond at all.
The contact pad on a car keyfob can be easily replaced using the 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 repair the fob.
It's not unusual for a key fob to being dropped, trampled or even exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, including bending or snapping them.
car key repair shop near me can also cause internal damage to the fob and lead to malfunction. This is why it's a good idea to carry a spare key fob inside your pocket or wallet in case you break the one you have.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding as they should, first make sure the battery is in good condition. Key fobs don't require a special type of electronic device. They utilize the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. These batteries are available at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is fine it's possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out and can be easily cleaned using a moist cloth to wipe them down. If the buttons don't work, you can test another car key fob. This will help determine whether the issue is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob functions, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths suggest. The basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs have to be programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as easy as pressing several keys. It is usually handled by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only the dealership is able to create a new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting the right shop.
Some car models will erase all other fobs after they've been changed, so you'll need any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is a costly proposition, especially if you're down to one functioning fob. Even if the mechanical key won't start the vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup key that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a gruelling experience if you opt to reprogram your fob yourself. There are countless guides online that promise to work but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides are written by people who have no prior experience in this field and are often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car's key fob by yourself in just only a few clicks. This is misleading.
Most key fobs are held by a plastic clip that is easy to remove however, the battery is within the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pull it out using a device. You should be able to locate the button cell battery. This is usually an insignificant battery for a watch that can be purchased at any home improvement or pharmacies. The replacement of the battery is generally an easy process, but it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
If a car key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning it is important to know that there are several ways to address the issue. It's as easy as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, however a more extensive repair might be required. A spare fob could be useful in the event that one is lost or stolen.
The majority of modern key fobs have an incredibly small physical key in addition to the electronic components they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart" fobs even include a remote starter built-in. As such, it's important to be aware that it can take up to an hour for a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which transmits a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This lets the driver unlock the car and start it from a distance, without putting the key in the ignition or turning the lock.
If your key fob buttons aren't working or responding intermittently, they may be damaged by water. It is possible to repair the fob if you take it apart and examine for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or getting a new one.
It is best to check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior purchasing a replacement keyfob to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's essential to research the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. Some fobs can be changed by a locksmith who is reputable, but other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer is able to utilize.