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, including the loss of functionality. While some issues may require professional attention, many are fixable at home.
Changing the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watches-style batteries that can be easily found at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
If a key fob battery dies, it can be a major hassle especially if you're far from home. However, there are options to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry doesn't work.
One of the first things you should be sure of is whether the buttons on the key fob function. If they do not then the issue could be in the car's locks.
If your keys don't work you need to look for a key slot with a mechanical lock located in the trim of your door handle or somewhere else on the vehicle (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, certain cars come with an app that allows you to unlock the door remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to open the doors using smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly subscription fee.
You should also make sure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle's battery by being plugged into it. A dead key fob can drain your battery, especially when you use its remote feature while watching TV or talking on the phone.
A key fob that's just low on battery can be activated by holding it up to the start button. It's a quick fix that can save you going to the dealer or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it fails the battery of the fob 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 open doors or start the vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob likely contains 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. This wear can cause your fob to react more slowly, or even not at all.
The contact pad on car keys can be easily replaced using an flathead screwdriver. If the key fob is badly damaged or broken in any way, it might be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll need to take the fob into an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to the keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This can also affect the internals of the fob, which could lead to an issue. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in the event that you damage the one you own.
Examine the battery first to determine to determine if the buttons on your key fob are not responding in the way they should. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't a special type of electronic device - the majority of them use the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids, which are readily accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and on the internet.
If the battery is working, it's likely that the buttons are worn down or dirty and can be easily cleaned using a damp cloth to wipe them down. If they're still not responding, you can try a different type of key fob to determine if the problem is with yours, or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob works it is possible that yours needs to be reprogrammed or replaced.
Reprogramming
The secret world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. Basic fobs function on radio frequency signals specific to each car. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons and with only a few exceptions it has to be done by the dealer.
The procedure for reprogramming the fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your car It is therefore essential to read the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that makes sure only dealerships can design the new fob and sync it with your vehicle. However some independent shops provide this service too so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting the shop.
Certain models of cars erase all other fobs if they're reprogrammed. This means that you'll have to have any extra fobs programmed by an expert. This can be expensive particularly if your fob has stopped working. It's always recommended to have at minimum a spare mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it's not able to start the car.
If you attempt to reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a difficult journey. There are many guides on the internet that promise success, but you'll likely be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people who have no knowledge of this field and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your own car key fob with just a few clicks, which is very confusing.
Most key fobs are held in place by a plastic clip which is easy to remove, however, the battery is within the circuit board, so you'll need to carefully pull it out using a device. You should be able to find the button battery. This is usually a small battery for a watch, which is available at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always a good idea to test first before replacing the entire unit.
Replacement
There are many methods to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. It's as easy as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, but a more in-depth repair may be required. A spare fob can be useful in the event one is stolen or lost.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace since they have the physical key along with electronics. Some "smart fobs" even include remote starters. It's important to be aware that it can take an hour or more to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver by using a small radio transmitter built into circuit boards. By pressing a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal unique to the car receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the vehicle from a distance without the need to put the ignition key in.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding or working in a sporadic manner, they may be damaged by water. The Key Lab can repair the fob by taking it apart and check for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can try reprogramming or buying an entirely new fob.
Before buying a replacement key fob online, consult a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are many aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's essential to look up the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them. While certain fobs can be repaired by a trusted locksmith, others require special programming equipment that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.