Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can have issues over time, including the loss of functionality. While some issues may require expert attention, most can be resolved at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries, which are easily found in hardware or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real inconvenience when the battery of a key fob dies. broken car key repair is particularly true if you are away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry doesn't work.
One of the first things you should be sure of is whether the key fob's buttons still function. If they do, then the problem may lie with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys won't unlock, there may be a mechanical slot within 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 can open doors remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly cost.
It is also important to ensure whether your key fob won't take the car's battery away by being plugged into them. A dead fob can drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control the TV or phone while you're watching.
The key fob should be held right towards the start button may cause a key fob with low battery. It's a simple fix that will save you a trip to the dealer or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out if your key fob is actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it's not working, the fob battery probably requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that your key fob has a damaged button. The key fob has an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears off over time. This wear could 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 a flat-head screwdriver. If the key fob has been badly smashed or harmed in any way, it could be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll have to take the fob into an auto repair shop for repairs.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be thrown around, trampled upon or even exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, including breaking the keys and snapping them.
This could also affect the internals of your fob and could cause malfunction. It is a good idea, therefore, to always carry an additional fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you're using is damaged.
Make sure the battery is charged first to determine if the buttons on your key fob are not responding in the way they should. Be aware that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device; most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries used in watches and hearing aids, which are readily available at drug stores, hardware stores, and online.
If the battery is working it's likely that the buttons are dirty or worn out and can be easily cleaned by using a damp cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, you can try a different key fob to see whether the issue is with yours or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other fob functions then it's likely your key fob needs to be reprogrammed or possibly replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The secret world of fobs for car keys is more complicated than most myths suggest. The basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs must be programmed correctly in order to be able to unlock and start 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 depends on the make and model year of the car you own It is therefore essential to read the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only the dealership is capable of creating a new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices prior to selecting the right shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs once they're changed. This means that you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by a professional. This is a costly proposition particularly if you're down to one functioning fob. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start your car, it's a good idea to have a backup that can open the doors and trunk.
If you do attempt to reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a difficult journey. You'll be disappointed by the numerous online guides that promise success. Many of these guides were written by people who have no knowledge of this field and are often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car's key fob by yourself in just the click of a button. This is false.
The majority of key fobs are held in place by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, but the battery is inside the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pry it out using a device. Once you've gotten inside, you'll be able to locate the button cell battery, which is typically a small watch battery that can be purchased at a variety of pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's typically easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole device, you should try it first.
Replacement
There are many ways to fix a broken or damaged car key fob. An easy fix could be as simple as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but a more thorough repair may be needed. A spare fob is helpful in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace because they contain an actual key along with electronics. Some "smart fobs" even come with a remote starter. As such, it's important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to get a replacement key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, and it transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance without the need to put the key in the ignition.
If your key fob buttons aren't working or responding intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. It is possible to repair the fob by taking it apart and look for damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, try reprogramming your fob or buying a new one.
car key repair cost should check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith before buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to ensure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are many aftermarket fobs less expensive, but it's crucial to research the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them. Some fobs can be changed by an experienced locksmith and other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer can utilize.