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Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may experience problems such as losing functionality. While some issues may require expert attention, most can be fixed at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watch-style battery, which is easily available at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a major issue when the battery of a key fob goes out. This is especially true when you are far from home. However, there are options to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry isn't working.
The first thing you should check is if the buttons on the fob are working. If remote key fob repair 't it could be a problem in the car's locks.
If your keys will not unlock, you may find a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails certain cars come with an app that lets you unlock the doors remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly fee.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by being plugged into it. A dead key fob can drain your battery fast, especially if it is used to control the TV or phone while you're watching.
A key fob that's just low on battery may be activated by holding it right up to the start button. It's a simple fix that will save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it fails, the fob battery probably requires replacement. It's a great idea to keep a spare key fob in your purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that the key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob likely contains an electronic circuit board that has "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are covered with a conductor of electricity which wears down over time. The wear may cause your device to respond slower, or not respond at all.
The contact pad on the car keyfob is easily replaced with a flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is badly smashed or harmed in any way, it could be more difficult to open the case, and you'll have to take the fob into an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped, trampled on or even exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to the keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This could also affect the internals of your fob, which could lead to a malfunction. It's a good idea, so, always keep an additional fob in your purse or pocket in case the one you're using breaks.
If remote key fob repair aren't working to the extent they should, you should first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Be aware that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device; most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries that are used in hearing aids and watches and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and on the internet.
If the battery is functioning properly, the buttons may be worn or dirty. 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 an specific model. If the other key fob works it is possible that yours needs to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car key fobs is much more complicated than the myths suggest. Basic fobs operate using radio frequency signals that are specific to each vehicle. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it has to be done by the dealer.
The procedure for reprogramming the fob is based on the model and model year of your vehicle, so it's important to refer to the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealers are capable of creating a brand new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops provide this service too, so be sure to review reviews and prices prior to selecting the shop.
Certain car models wipe out all other fobs when they're changed, so you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is a costly proposition particularly if you're down to just one working fob. It is always advisable to have at minimum a spare mechanical key you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it's not able to start the car.
If you decide to attempt to reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a gruelling journey. You'll be disappointed by the numerous online guides that promise success. Many 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 only a few clicks, which is very confusing.
The majority of key fobs are held in place by a clip made of plastic which is easy to remove, but the battery is inside the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. Once you get inside, you'll be able to locate the button cell battery, which is typically a tiny watch battery that can be purchased at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's generally simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the entire unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
Replacement
There are several methods to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. It is possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However, a more extensive repair may be needed. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs include an incredibly small physical key in addition the electronics they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Certain "smart" fobs even have a built-in remote starter. It's therefore important to understand that it could take up to an hour to have an alternative key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter on the circuit board. When you press a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance, without having to put the key in the ignition.
If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or work sporadically it could mean that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You could be able to fix the fob by disassembling it and looking for any damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob, or purchasing a new one.
Before purchasing a replacement key fob online, you should seek out an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to confirm that it is compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's important to study the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable, but other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer can use.