Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may have issues, such as a losing functionality. While some issues may require professional attention, many can be resolved at home.
The first step is usually to replace the battery. The majority of fobs have batteries with a flat design which are easily found at auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
If a key fob battery dies, it can be a major hassle especially if you're far from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry doesn't work.
The first thing to test is if the buttons on the fob are still working. If they aren't then the issue could be with the car's locks.
If your keys do not unlock, you might find a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or in other places in your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some vehicles come with an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly fee.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining the car's battery by being plugged into it. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, especially when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone.
A key fob that's just low on battery can sometimes be started by holding it up to the start button. It's a quick fix that can save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
If your key fob doesn't work try testing it in a vehicle that has an ignition button. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the fob battery. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob is unable to unlock doors or start the car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob is likely to have an electronic circuit board that has "contact pads" for each button, and these little pads are coated with a conductor of electricity that wears away over time. This wear could make your fob respond slow or not respond at all.
The good news is that the pad on the key fob of a car is easy to replace, and can be done so by using a simple flathead screwdriver. If the key fob has been badly damaged or broken in any way, it might be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll be required to take the fob into an auto repair shop for repairs.
It's not uncommon for a key fob be dropped, trampled on or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to the keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
It could also affect the internals of the fob which could result in a malfunction. This is why it's recommended to keep a spare key fob in your purse or pocket in case you accidentally damage the one you own.
If your key fob's buttons aren't working in the way they should, you should first check to make sure the battery is in good working condition. Be aware that key fobs aren't any special type of electronic device - they're typically powered by the same two-dollar batteries that are used in hearing aids and watches that are readily accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and online.
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 they're still not responding, test a different key fob to determine if the issue is with yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other key fob is working it is possible that yours needs to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is much more complex than some myths suggest. The basic fobs work on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be programmed correctly to open and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons and with very few exceptions it has to be done by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealers are capable of creating a brand new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so check reviews and prices before choosing a shop.
Certain car models erase other fobs when they are reprogrammed. This means that you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by a professional. This can be expensive especially if the fob isn't working anymore. Even if the mechanical key won't work to start the vehicle, it's a good idea to have a backup key that can open the trunk and doors.
If you attempt to reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a frustrating journey. There are countless guides online that promise to work but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people with no experience in this area and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car's key fob with just the click of a button. This is false.
The majority of key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that is easy to remove but the battery is inside the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pry it out using a device. Once you've got inside, you should be able to locate the button cell battery, which is typically a tiny watch battery that is available in most pharmacies or home improvement stores. Removing car keys repair is typically simple, and it's always worthwhile to try this first before replacing the entire device.
Replacement
If a car key fob has been damaged or fails to function it is important to know there are a few ways to fix the issue. It's as simple as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more thorough repair might be required. A spare fob can be useful in the event one is stolen or lost.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace since they have a physical key along with electronic. Some "smart fobs" even come with a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour to get a new key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing web page activates the transmitter, and it transmits a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and validates it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the 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 responding or working intermittently, they could have been 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, try reprogramming the fob or purchasing a new fob.
Before you purchase a replacement fob online, you should seek out an expert locksmith or your local dealer to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper however, you must look into the reviews and brands before trying to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by an accredited locksmith, but other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer is able to utilize.