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 a loss of functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, but most are fixable at home.
The first step is usually to replace the battery. Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which is easily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real issue when a remote key fob repair near me fob's battery is dead. This is especially the case when you are far from home. There are ways to get your vehicle back on the road in case your keyless entry system has stopped working.
The first thing to test is to see if the buttons on the key fob are working. If they do not then the issue could be with the locks on your car.
If your keys don't work, look for a mechanical key slot located in the door handle trim or on another part of the 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 unlock doors remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps do charge monthly subscription fees.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob does not drain the batteries of your car by resting on them. A dead fob will drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control your phone or TV while you're watching.
Holding the key fob to the car's start button could cause a key fob with low battery. This quick fix can save you from a trip to your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
If your key fob won't work You can test it in a car with an electronic starter button. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the fob battery. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob inside the bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob doesn't have the ability to unlock doors or start the car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons are damaged. Your key fob is equipped with a circuit with "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductor film. This film wears off over time. This wear could cause your device to respond more slowly, or even not respond at all.
The good news is that the pad inside the car key fob is easy to replace, and is done by using a simple flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it will be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto shop to get the fob repaired.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped, trampled on or even exposed to water. All of these events can result in physical damage, like breaking and snapping keys.
This can also affect the internals of the fob which could result in a malfunction. It's a good idea that's why you should always carry an additional fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you're currently using fails.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working to the extent they should, first verify that the battery is in good working condition. Keep in mind that key fobs don't come with a particular kind of electronic device - the majority of them use the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches and are available at drug stores, hardware stores, and on the internet.
If the battery is functioning properly the buttons could be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, try a different type of key fob to determine whether the problem is related to yours or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other key fob functions, then yours may need to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The world of car key repairs near me fobs is more intricate than what some myths would suggest. Basic fobs function on radio frequency signals specific to each vehicle. The fobs must be properly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Unfortunately it's not as simple as pressing a few buttons and with very few exceptions it must be handled by a dealer.
Refer to the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that guarantees only dealers can create an entirely new fob and then sync it to your vehicle. However, some independent shops can offer this service as well and you should look up reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs when they're changed, so you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is an expensive proposition particularly if you're down to just one working fob. It is always advisable to have at least one spare mechanical key that you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it's not able to start the car.
If you decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a gruelling journey. There are many guides online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides are written by people who have no prior experience in this field, and they're often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks. This is misleading.
Most key fobs are held in place by a plastic clip which is easy to remove, but the battery is inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pry it out with a tool. You should be able find the button battery. It's usually a small battery for watches that is available at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically a straightforward procedure, and it's always a good idea to test this first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If the car key fob has been damaged or isn't functioning it is important to know that there are a few ways to address the issue. It is possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However an extensive repair may be required. It can also be helpful to have a spare key fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs contain a small physical key in addition the electronic component they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" even include remote key repair near me starters. It's important to understand that it can take up to an hour to cut and program an alternative fob for your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes the signal and checks it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the car and start it from a distance, without inserting the key into the ignition or turning a lock.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't working or responding intermittently, they could be damaged by water. You can repair the fob if you take it apart and check for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try reprogramming the fob, or getting an entirely new one.
It is recommended to consult an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior purchasing a replacement keyfob online to make sure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper, but you should study the reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by an experienced locksmith however, other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer can use.