Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs may experience issues over time, such as a loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, but most can be resolved at home.
The first step is typically to change the battery. Most fobs use batteries with a flat design which are easily found in hardware stores or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly problem when a key fob's battery is dead. This is particularly true when you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road even the car's keyless entry doesn't work.
The first thing you should check is to see if the buttons on the fob still work. If they aren't, the problem could be with the car's locks.
If the keys won't unlock try looking for a key slot with a mechanical lock located in your door handle trim or on another part of the vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, some vehicles come with an app that allows you to unlock the door remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app permit owners to open their doors using their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to an annual cost.
You should also make sure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle's battery by resting on it. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, especially if you use its remote feature while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
Holding the key fob right up to your car's start button could cause the key fob that has an empty 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 try testing it in a vehicle that has a push-button starter. If it fails, the fob battery probably needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to unlock doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob likely contains a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are coated with an electricity conducting film that wears down over time. This wear could cause your fob to react less quickly, or not respond at all.
The good news is that the pad in the key fob of a car can be replaced easily, and can be done so with the help of a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged it may be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto repair shop to have the fob repaired.
It's not uncommon for a key fob be dropped, trampled on or even exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, such as breaking and snapping keys.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob and lead to an issue. This is why it's an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob in your pocket or wallet in case you damage the one you own.
Make sure the battery is charged first if your key fob buttons are not responding like they should. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device - most of them run on the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids and are accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and even online.
If the battery is good the buttons could be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can try a different type of key fob to determine whether the problem is related to yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other key fob functions, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is much more complex than some myths would 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 it's not as easy as pressing a few buttons and with only a few exceptions it must be handled by the dealer.
Consult your owner's guide for more detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that guarantees only the dealership can create an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service as well, so be sure to look up reviews and prices prior to choosing the shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs when they're programmed, meaning you'll need to get any additional fobs programmed professionally. This is an expensive proposition, especially if you're down to one functioning fob. Even in the event that the mechanical key will not work to start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.
Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you decide to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are numerous guides available on the internet that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. A majority of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated statements. Some of them even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which can be very misleading.
The battery is typically held in place with an elastic clip that can be easily removed. However, the circuit board contains the battery, and you'll need to remove the battery using an instrument. 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 found in most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically a straightforward procedure, and it's always worthwhile to try this first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or non-functioning car key fob. A quick fix can be as simple as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, but a more thorough repair may be required. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace because they contain an actual key as well as the electronic. Certain "smart" fobs have a built-in remote starter. It's important to know that it can take up to an hour to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle.
Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter transmits an RF signal unique to the car receiver. The receiver detects the signal and checks it against preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the vehicle from a distance without the need to insert the key in the ignition.
If your fob's buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. It is possible to repair the fob if you take it apart and look for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't solve the issue, try reprogramming the fob, or purchasing a new one.
Before purchasing a replacement key fob on the internet, seek out an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to confirm that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are remote car key repair fobs cheaper, but it's essential to research the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. While some fobs can be replaced by a reputable locksmith, others require specialized programming equipment that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.