Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs could be affected by issues such as malfunction. While some issues may require professional attention, the majority are fixable at home.
broken car key repair is generally to replace the battery. Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find in hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly issue when the battery of a key fob goes out. This is especially the case when you're away from home. There are ways to get your vehicle back on the road in case your keyless entry system has stopped working.
One of the first things you should be sure of is to determine if the buttons on your key fob function. If they do, the problem may lie with your car's locks instead of the fob.
If the keys won't unlock, look for a mechanical key slot concealed in the trim of your door handle or somewhere else on the 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 open doors remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps do charge monthly subscription fees.
Also, make sure that your key fob does not take the car's battery away by being plugged into them. A dead key fob can drain your battery, particularly when you use its remote features while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
A key fob that's low on battery may be activated by bringing it until you hit the start button. This simple fix can save you from a trip to your dealer or certain Interstate All Battery Centers.
You can also determine whether your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it fails it's likely that the battery requires replacement. It's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start the car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons is damaged. Your key fob is equipped with an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears away over time. This wear could make your fob respond less or not at all.
The pad that contacts car keys can be easily replaced with the flat-head screwdriver. If the key fob is severely damaged or broken in any way, it could be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto shop for repair.
It's not uncommon for a key fob being dropped, trampled or even exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them.
This can also cause internal damage to the fob and lead to a malfunction. This is why it's always an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob in your wallet or pocket in the event that you damage the one you own.
Check the battery first to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't responding as they should. Key fobs do not require an electronic device. They are powered by the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. These batteries are available at drug, hardware, and online stores.
If the battery is in good condition, it's likely that the buttons are just worn down or dirty and can be easily cleaned by using a damp cloth to wipe them down. If they're still not responding, test a different key fob to see whether the issue is related to yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other fob is working it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed or possibly replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of fobs for car keys is more complicated than most myths suggest. The basic fobs operate on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs have to be programmed correctly in order to open 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 process of reprogramming a fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your car It is therefore essential to read the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes, use proprietary technology that ensures only dealers can create a new fob and re-sync it with your vehicle. However certain independent shops provide this service too, so be sure to look up reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs once they're changed. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This is a costly proposition, especially if you're down to just one working fob. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start your vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup option that can open the trunk and doors.
If you decide to try and reprogram your fob on your own be prepared for a gruelling journey. There are countless guides online that promise success, but you'll likely be disappointed. Many of these guides were created by people who have no experience in this area and often are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob yourself with only a few clicks. This is false.
The battery is typically held in place by clips made of plastic, which is easily removed. However the circuit board houses the battery, so you will need to carefully remove the battery with the aid of a tool. Once you've gotten inside, you should be able to locate the button cell battery which is typically a small watch battery that can be purchased at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's typically easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first.
Replacement
If the car key fob has been damaged or has stopped working, it's important to know that there are several options to fix the issue. It could be possible to resolve the issue quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However, a more extensive repair may be required. It is also helpful to have a spare key fob in case one gets lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace because they contain a physical key as well as the electronic. Some "smart" fobs include a remote starter built-in. It's therefore important to know that it can take up to an hour to have a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. When you press a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver receives the signal and checks it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to unlock the car and begin it from a distance without putting the key in the ignition or turning a lock.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding or working in a sporadic manner, they may be damaged by water. You may be able to fix the fob by disassembling it and examining it for broken or unresponsive buttons. If this does not solve the problem, try reprogramming or buying a new fob.
It is best to check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob 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 study the reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. Some fobs can be changed by an accredited locksmith, but other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer can utilize.