Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can experience problems over time, including a loss of functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, but most are fixable at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which are easily found at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
When a key fob battery dies, it can be a major hassle particularly if you're away from home. However, there are options to get back on the road when your car's keyless entry isn't working.
One of the first things to be sure of is to determine if the buttons on the key fob work. If they don't, the problem could be with the car's locks.
If your keys will 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 work certain cars come with an app that can unlock the doors remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to an annual cost.
You should also check that your key fob doesn't drain the batteries of your car by resting on them. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, particularly if you use its remote feature while watching TV or talking on the phone.
A key fob that's just low on battery can be activated by holding it until you hit the start button. It's a simple solution that could save you a trip to the dealer or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
If your key fob does not work try testing it in a vehicle that has an ignition button. If it fails the battery of the fob requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start the car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. The key fob has an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductive film. This film wears off over time. The wear may make your fob respond less or not at all.
The good news is that the contact pad on the car key fob is simple to replace and can be done so using a simple flathead screwdriver. If key repairs is damaged or badly damaged, it will be difficult to open. You'll have to take it to an auto shop to have the fob repaired.
It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on or exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to the keys, such as bending or snapping them.
This can also alter the internals of the fob and could cause a malfunction. It's a good idea, that's why you should always carry an extra fob in your wallet or pocket in case the one you're using fails.
Examine the battery first to determine to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't working like they should. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device; they're typically powered by the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches, which are readily available at drug stores, hardware stores, and even online.
If the battery is working it's likely that the buttons are worn down or dirty and can be easily cleaned by using a damp cloth to wipe them clean. If the buttons do not work, you could try an alternative car key fob. This will help determine if the problem is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob is working, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The world of fobs for car keys is more complicated than most myths suggest. The basic fobs function on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs have to be programmed to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons, and with a few exceptions, it must be handled by the dealer.
The procedure for reprogramming the fob is based on the model and model year of your car, so it's important to refer to the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes, use proprietary technology that makes sure only the dealership can create the new fob and sync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops provide this service too, so be sure to look up reviews and prices prior to selecting the shop.
Certain models of cars erase other fobs when they are changed. This means you'll need to have any extra fobs programmed by an expert. This can be costly particularly if your fob isn't working anymore. It's always wise to have at least one backup mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it's not able to start the car.
Be prepared for a difficult experience if you decide to reprogram your fob yourself. There are numerous guides available online that promise to work, but you'll likely be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people who have no knowledge of this field, and they're often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob yourself with a few clicks. This is false.
The majority of key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is within the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pull it out using a tool. You should be able to locate the button cell battery. It's typically an insignificant battery for watches that is available at most 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 damaged or malfunctioning car key fob. It may be possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However an extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob is useful in the event that one is lost or taken.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace since they have the physical key and electronic. Some "smart fobs" even come with a remote starter. It's important to understand that it could take an hour or more to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which sends an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes the signal and validates it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance, without having to put the ignition key in.
If your key fob buttons are not responding or working in a sporadic manner, they may have been damaged by water. You may be able to fix the fob by taking it apart and examining it for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing another one.
You should check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob online to make sure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive, but you should look into the reviews and brands before trying to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable however, other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer can utilize.