Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can experience problems with time, like the loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, but many can be fixed at home.
The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs have flat watches which are easily found at hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be a real issue when a key fob's battery is dead. This is especially the case if you are away from home. There are methods to get your car back on the road if your keyless entry system has stopped working.
One of the first things you should be sure of is whether the key fob's buttons still work. If they do not it could be a problem with the locks on your car.
If your keys will not unlock, you might find a mechanical slot within the trim around your door handles or in other places on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, some cars come with an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. For example, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to open their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps require an annual cost.
Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by resting on it. A dead key fob can drain your battery, particularly when you utilize its remote features while watching TV or talking on the phone.
A key fob that's low on battery can be started by holding it right up to the start button. 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 try testing it in a vehicle that has an ignition button. If it doesn't work it's likely that the battery requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob inside a purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to unlock doors or start the vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons are damaged. Your key fob is likely to have an electronic circuit board that has "contact pads" for each button, and these tiny pads are coated with an electricity conducting film that wears away over time. The wear may make your fob respond less or not at all.
The pad that contacts the car keyfob is easily replaced with the flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it will be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto repair shop to get the fob repaired.
It's not unusual for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to the keys, such as bending or snapping them.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob and result in a malfunction. This is why it's an ideal idea to keep an extra key fob in your purse or pocket in case you damage the one you own.
Make sure the battery is charged first if your key fob buttons aren't working as they should. Key fobs do not require a special type of electronic device. They are powered by the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is in good condition it is possible that the buttons are worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons still don't work, you can test a different car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or a particular model. If the other fob works it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed or perhaps replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The world of car keys fobs is more complicated than most myths suggest. Basic fobs function on radio frequency signals unique to each car. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as simple as pressing several keys. It is usually handled by the dealer.
The process of reprogramming a fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of the car you own It is therefore essential to refer to the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealers are capable of creating a new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. However some independent shops provide this service as well so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting the shop.
Some car models will erase all other fobs once they've been programmed, meaning you'll need to get any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be expensive, especially if your fob isn't working anymore. It's always wise to have at minimum a spare mechanical key you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it's not able to start the car.
Be prepared for a difficult experience if you opt to reprogram your fob yourself. There are countless guides on the internet that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. A lot of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some of them even state that you can program your own car key fob in just a few clicks, which can be very false.
The majority of key fobs are held in place by a clip made of plastic that is easy to remove however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pry it out using a device. Once you've got inside, you'll be able to find the button cell battery which is typically a tiny watch battery that is available at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the entire unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
Replacement
If your car key fob is damaged or isn't functioning it is important to know that there are a few ways to fix the issue. An easy fix could be as easy as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more thorough repair might be required. A spare fob is useful in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace due to the fact that they have a physical key as well as the electronic. Certain "smart" fobs also include a remote starter built-in. It's important to understand that it can take up to an hour to cut and program an alternative fob for your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, which sends a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver receives the signal and validates it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and begin it from a distance, without inserting the key into the ignition or turning a lock.
If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or function intermittently it could mean that they have been damaged by water or other factors. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and look for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob, or buying a new one.
Before you purchase a replacement fob online, you should seek out an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. her latest blog purchased from a third party can be cheaper, but you should study the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them yourself. Some fobs can be changed by an experienced locksmith however, other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer can utilize.