Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may be affected by issues such as loss of functionality. While some issues may require expert attention, most are fixable at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style battery, which can be easily found at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real inconvenience when the battery of a key fob dies. This is especially true if you are away from home. There are ways to get your car back on the road if you're keyless entry system isn't working.
The first thing to check is if the buttons on the fob still work. If they aren't it could be a problem in the car's locks.
If your keys do not unlock, you may find a mechanical slot within the trim around your door handles or on your vehicle (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 lets you unlock doors remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly fee.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob does not drain the batteries of your car by sitting on them. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, particularly when you use its remote functions while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
The key fob should be held right towards the start button may cause the key fob that has a low battery. This simple fix can save you from a trip to your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
If your key fob doesn't work You can test it in a vehicle with an electronic starter button. If it's not working it's likely that the battery requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
It is possible that your key fob has a damaged button. The key fob has an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" which are covered by an electrically conductive film. car key repair cost wears away over time. This wear can cause your device to respond slower or not at all.
The good news is that the pad inside the car key fob is simple to replace and is done with the help of a flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob has been badly damaged or smashed in any way, it could be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll have to take the fob into an auto shop for repair.
It's not uncommon for a key fob be dropped, trampled on or exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, such as bending and snapping the keys.
It could also affect the internals of your fob and could cause malfunction. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in case you break the one you already have.
Make sure the battery is charged first to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't working in the way they should. Be aware that key fobs aren't a special type of electronic device - most of them run on the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches, which are readily accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online.
If the battery is in good condition the buttons could be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine if the issue is related to yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob is working, then yours may need to be reset or replaced.
Reprogramming
The world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. Basic fobs work with radio frequency signals that are specific to each car. The fobs must be properly programmed to allow unlocking and starting 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 a dealer.
Consult your owner's guide for specific instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that makes sure only dealers can create an entirely new fob and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so check reviews and prices before choosing the right shop.
Certain models of cars will wipe out all other fobs after they've been changed, so you'll have to have any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be costly, especially if you're just one functional fob. Even if the mechanical key won't work to start your vehicle, it's a good idea to have a backup key that can open the trunk and doors.
If you do decide to attempt to reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a gruelling journey. You'll be disappointed with the numerous online guides that claim to be successful. A majority of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated statements. Some of them even state that you can program your 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 that's easy to loosen, but the battery is inside the circuit board, so you'll have to carefully pry it out using a device. Once you get inside, you should be able to locate the button cell battery which is usually a small watch battery that can be found in most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's usually easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole device, you should try it first.
Replacement
There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or malfunctioning car key fob. It's 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 taken.
The majority of modern key fobs have an incredibly small physical key, in addition to the electronics which makes them more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" include a remote starter. It's important to understand that it can take an hour or more to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle.
Fobs use a small radio transmitter that is mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the car and begin it from a distance, without placing the key in the ignition or turning a lock.
If your fob's buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You could be able to repair the fob by taking it apart and looking for any damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the problem, you can try reprogramming the fob, or purchasing an entirely new one.
Before you purchase a replacement fob online, you should consult an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to confirm that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive however, you must research reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. While some fobs can be replaced by a trusted locksmith, other models require special programming equipment that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.