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Car Key Fob Repair – How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working Over time, key fobs could experience problems such as loss of functionality. While some issues might require professional attention, the majority can be resolved at home. Change the battery is often the first step. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which can be easily found in hardware or auto parts stores. Dead Battery When a key fob battery is dead, it could be a huge inconvenience, especially if you're away from home. There are methods to get your vehicle back on the road if you're keyless entry system isn't working. The first thing to check is to see if the buttons on the key fob still work. If they do, the issue may be with your car's locks instead of the fob. If the keys aren't unlocking, look for a key slot with a mechanical lock concealed in your door handle trim or somewhere else on the car (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work certain cars come with an app that can unlock the doors remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for example let owners unlock their doors using smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription. You should also check that your key fob does not take the car's battery away by resting on them. A dead fob can drain your battery quickly particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you're watching. Holding the key fob up to your car's start button may cause the key fob that has a low battery. It's a simple solution that could save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations. If your key fob doesn't work You can test it in a vehicle that has a push-button starter. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the battery in your fob. It's a great idea to keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse. Damaged Buttons If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start your vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob contains a circuit with “contact pads” that are covered with an electrically conductive film. auto key repair near me wears off over time. This wear could cause your device to respond less quickly, or not to respond at all. The pad that contacts the car keyfob is easily replaced with the flat-head screwdriver. However, if the key fob is severely damaged or smashed in any way, it could be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll need to take the fob into an auto repair shop to be repaired. It's not common for a key fob be thrown around, trampled upon or even exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage, including breaking the keys and snapping them. This could also affect the internals of your fob which could result in an issue. It's a good idea so, always keep an additional fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you're using breaks. Make sure the battery is charged first if your key fob buttons aren't responding as they should. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't any special type of electronic device – most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries that are used in watches and hearing aids and are accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online. If the battery is in good condition, it's likely that the buttons are worn down or dirty and can be easily cleaned using a moist cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, you can try a different key fob to determine if the issue is with yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other fob is working it's likely that your key fob has to be reset or perhaps replaced entirely. Reprogramming The secret world of car key fobs is much more intricate than what some myths suggest. The basic fobs function by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be programmed correctly in order to be able to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons and with very few exceptions it needs to be handled by the dealer. The procedure of reprogramming a fob depends on the make and model year of your vehicle, so it's important to consult the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that guarantees only dealers can create an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices before choosing a shop. Certain models of cars erase all other fobs once they're programmed again. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This can be expensive especially if the fob isn't working anymore. his comment is here 's always recommended to have a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the trunk and doors, even if it won't start the car. If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a gruelling journey. You'll be disappointed with the countless online guides that claim to be successful. Many of these guides are written by people who have no experience in this area and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which is very false. Most key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is within the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. You should be able to find the button battery. It's usually a small battery for a watch that can be purchased at any pharmacies or home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always a good idea to test first before replacing the entire device. Replacement There are a variety of methods to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. It is possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair may be required. A spare fob can be useful in the event that one is stolen or lost. Most modern key fobs contain an incredibly small physical key in addition the electronic component, making them both pricier and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Certain “smart” fobs also have a built-in remote starter. Therefore, it's important to know that it can take up to an hour for a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle. Fobs make use of a tiny radio transmitter mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, which sends an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects the signal and checks it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance, without the need to put the key in the ignition. If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or function intermittently, it can indicate that they have been damaged by water or other factors. You can fix the fob if you take it apart and check for damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the problem, try reprogramming or buying a new fob. Before you purchase a replacement fob online, contact a professional locksmith or your local dealer to confirm that it is compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's essential to study the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them. Certain fobs can be modified by an accredited locksmith, but other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer is able to utilize.