Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs can experience problems such as losing functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, but many can be resolved at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. 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 if you are away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road even the vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things you should be sure of is whether the key fob's buttons still work. If they do, the problem may lie in the locks of your car instead of the fob.
If your keys won't unlock, you may find an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or elsewhere on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, some cars have an app that allows you to unlock it remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app permit owners to open the doors using smartphones. However, electronic car key repair near me have a monthly fee.
Also, make sure that your key fob doesn't drain the batteries of your car by being plugged into them. A dead key fob can drain your battery quickly particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you are watching.
A key fob that's low on battery may be activated by holding it right up to the start button. It's a quick fix that will save you a trip to the dealership or select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out whether your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it's not working, the fob battery probably requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob inside the bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It is possible that your key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob is likely to have circuit boards with "contact pads" for each button, and these tiny pads are covered with an electricity conducting film that wears away over time. This wear can cause your device to respond more slowly, or even not to respond at all.
The pad that contacts the car keyfob is easily replaced with an flathead screwdriver. If the key fob has been badly damaged or broken in any way, it might be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll have to take the fob into an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
It could also affect the internals of the fob, which could lead to an issue. This is why it's recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in case you accidentally damage the one you own.
Check the battery first if your key fob buttons are not responding like they should. Key fobs do not require any special electronic device. They utilize the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at drug, hardware, and online stores.
If the battery is good it is possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons don't work, try another car key fob. This will help determine if the problem is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob works, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths would suggest. The basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs have to be properly programmed in order to be able to unlock and start the car. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it must be handled by the dealer.
Refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that guarantees only the dealership can create the new fob and sync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops provide this service as well, so be sure to look up reviews and prices prior to selecting the right shop.
Some car models will erase other fobs once they've been changed, so you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This can be costly particularly if your fob isn't working anymore. It's always recommended to have a spare mechanical key you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it doesn't start the car.
Be prepared for a difficult experience if you decide to reprogram your fob by yourself. You'll be disappointed by numerous guides on the internet that promise success. A lot of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even state that you can program your own car key fob in just a few clicks, which is very confusing.
Most 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 pry it out with a tool. Once you've got inside, you should be able locate the button cell battery which is usually a small watch battery that is available in most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the entire device, you should try it first.
Replacement
There are many ways to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. It's as simple as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but a more thorough repair may be required. It can also be helpful to keep a spare fob in case one gets lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs contain an incredibly small physical key in addition the electronic components, making them both pricier and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart" fobs even have a built-in remote starter. It's important to be aware that it could take an hour or more to cut and program an alternative fob for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver using a small radio transmitter on a circuitboard. When you press a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and start it from a distance, without inserting the key into the ignition or turning the lock.
If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or function intermittently, it can indicate that they have been damaged by water or other factors. It is possible to repair the fob by taking it apart and look for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob, or getting an entirely new one.
It is recommended to consult a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's important to study the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them. Some fobs can be changed by an experienced locksmith, but other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer can utilize.