Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 Different Ways To Deliver Car Key Fob Repair
Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Key fobs can have issues with time, like an inability to function. Certain issues may require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style battery, which are easily found in hardware or auto parts stores.
Dead Battery
It can be an incredibly problem when the battery of a key fob dies. This is particularly true if you are away from home. There are ways to get back on the road even when your car's keyless entry doesn't work.
One of the first things you should be sure of is to determine if the key fob's buttons still function. If they do, the issue may be with the car's locks instead of the fob.
If your keys do not unlock, you might find an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or in other places in your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails, some cars have an app that allows you to unlock the doors remotely. For example, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. These apps charge a monthly subscription fee.
Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining the car's battery by being plugged into it. A dead key fob can drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control the TV or phone while you are watching.
The key fob should be held right to the car's start button could cause the key fob that has a low battery. It's a quick fix that can save you a trip to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in another vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the battery on your fob. It's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in your purse or backpack.
Damaged Buttons
It's possible that your key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob is likely to have an electronic circuit board that has "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are coated with a conductor of electricity that wears away over time. This wear can make your fob respond slower or not at all.
The contact pad on the car keyfob is easily replaced using the flat-head screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is badly damaged or broken in any way, it might be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll have to take the fob into an auto repair shop for repairs.
It's not common for a key fob be dropped, trampled on, or exposed water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
It can also cause internal damage to the fob, which could lead to an issue. It is a good idea, so, always keep an extra fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you're currently using fails.
Check the battery first If your key fob's buttons aren't working like they should. Keep in mind that key fobs don't come with a particular kind of electronic device - the majority of them use the same two-dollar batteries that are used in watches and hearing aids and are accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and on the internet.
If the battery is working it's likely that the buttons are just dirty or worn out and can be easily cleaned using a moist cloth to clean them. If the buttons still don't work, you can test an alternative car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or an specific model. If the other fob functions it's likely that your key fob needs to be reprogrammed, or perhaps replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The hidden world of fobs for car keys is more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs have to be programmed correctly to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately it's not as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it has to be done by the dealer.
Refer to the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that ensures only dealers can create an entirely new fob and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so check reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop.
repair car key erase other fobs once they've been programmed, meaning you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed. This can be costly, especially if your fob is no longer working. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup key that can open the trunk and doors.
If you decide to try and reprogram your fob on your own be prepared for a difficult journey. There are many guides online that promise to work however, you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even state that you can program your own car key fob with just a few clicks, which can be very false.
The battery is typically secured with a plastic clip, which can be easily removed. However, the circuit board contains the battery, so you'll need to remove the battery with a tool. Once you get inside, you should be able to locate the button cell battery which is typically a tiny watch battery that is available at a variety of pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the entire device, you should try it first.
Replacement
There are a variety of ways to fix a broken or non-functioning car key fob. It may be possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However, a more extensive repair may be needed. It's also beneficial to have a spare key fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Most modern key fobs contain the physical key in addition to the electronic component they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" include a remote starter. It's therefore important to know that it can take up to an hour for a replacement key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car receiver using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on the circuit board. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, which sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance without the need to insert the key in the ignition.
If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or work sporadically it could indicate that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and look for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing another 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. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive but you should look into the brands and read reviews before trying to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a trusted locksmith, other models require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.