Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs may experience issues with time, like an inability to function. While some issues may require professional attention, many can be fixed at home.
The first step is typically to replace the battery. Most fobs use flat watch-style batteries which are easily found at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If a key fob battery dies, it can be a huge inconvenience especially if you're far from home. There are methods to get your vehicle back on the road if your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things to examine is whether the buttons on the key fob work. If they aren't it could be a problem in the car's locks.
If the keys won't unlock, look for a mechanical key slot hidden in the trim of your door handle or in another location on the vehicle (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails, some cars have an app that allows you to open doors remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app permit owners to open their doors with their smartphones. These apps are charged monthly subscription fees.
You should also check that your key fob doesn't take the car's battery away by sitting on them. A dead fob will drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control the TV or phone while you're watching.
Holding the key fob to the car's start button may cause a key fob with a low battery. It's a simple fix that will save you a trip to the dealership or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out whether your key fob is actually dead by testing it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it fails it's likely that the battery needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob inside your bag or purse.
Damaged broken car key repair that the key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob likely contains circuit boards with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are coated with an electrically conducting film which wears down over time. This wear can cause your device to respond more slowly, or even not to respond at all.
The good news is that the pad on a car key fob is easy to replace, and is done with the help of a flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is badly damaged or smashed in any way, it could be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop for repairs.
It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This could also cause internal damage to the fob and result in a malfunction. This is why it's recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in case you break the one you already have.
Check the battery first if your key fob buttons aren't working as they should. Be aware that key fobs aren't any special type of electronic device - the majority of them use the same two-dollar batteries used in hearing aids and watches and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online.
If the battery is good it is possible that the buttons are worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, try a different car key fob. This will help determine if the problem is yours or an specific model. If the other fob functions, it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reset or even replaced completely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car key fobs is much more intricate than what some myths would suggest. The basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs must be properly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing a few keys. It's usually handled by the dealer.
Refer to the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealerships are capable of creating a brand new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs after they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll need any additional fobs professionally programmed. This can be expensive especially if the fob has stopped working. Even in the event that the mechanical key will not work to start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a gruelling experience if you opt to reprogram your fob by yourself. You'll be disappointed with the numerous guides on the internet that claim to be successful. A majority of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your own car key fob in only a few clicks, which is very misleading.
Most key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, but the battery is inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pry it out using a tool. You should be able find the button battery. It's usually an insignificant battery for watches that is available at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Replacing the battery is usually a straightforward procedure, and it's always a good idea to test first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If a car key fob is damaged or fails to function it is crucial to know that there are several options to address the issue. A quick fix can be as simple as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but a more in-depth repair might be required. It is also helpful to keep a spare fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace because they contain the physical key as well as the electronic. Some "smart fobs" even include a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour to have a new key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter on a circuitboard. When you press a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver recognizes the signal and checks it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and begin it from a distance, without putting the key in the ignition or turning a lock.
If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or operate intermittently, it can indicate that they have been damaged by water or other factors. It is possible to repair the fob by removing it and inspecting for any broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can try reprogramming or buying a new fob.
car keys repairs near me is recommended to consult an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior purchasing a replacement keyfob to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper however, you must study the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them yourself. While some fobs can be replaced by a reputable locksmith others require specialized equipment to program them that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.