Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working

Over time, key fobs may have issues, such as a malfunction. While some issues might require expert attention, most are fixable at home.

The first step is generally to replace the battery. The majority of fobs have flat watches that are readily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores.

Dead Battery

It can be an incredibly inconvenience when the battery of a key fob is dead. This is particularly true when you are far from home. There are ways to get your car back on the road in case you're keyless entry system isn't working.

The first thing to test is if the buttons on the key fob still work. If they don't then the issue could be with the car's locks.

If your keys do not unlock, you may find a mechanical slot in the trim around your door handles or on your car (consult the 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 it remotely. For example, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app permit owners to open the doors using smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly cost.

It is also important to ensure whether your key fob won't take the car's battery away by resting on them. A dead key fob can drain your battery quickly, especially if it is used to control the TV or phone while you are watching.


Holding the key fob to the car's start button can sometimes start a key fob with an empty battery. This simple fix could save you from having to visit your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.

If remote car key repair near me won't work try testing it in a vehicle that has an ignition button. If it's not working it's likely that the battery requires replacement. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse.

Damaged Buttons

It is possible that your key fob has a damaged button. Your key fob is likely to have a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button. These little pads are coated with a conductor of electricity which wears down over time. This wear could cause your fob to react less quickly, or not at all.

The contact pad on car keys can be easily replaced using a flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is badly damaged or smashed in any way, it could be more difficult to open the case, and you'll need to take the fob into an auto shop for repair.

It's not unusual for a key fob to being dropped, trampled or exposed to water. All of these incidents can result in physical damage, like breaking and snapping keys.

This can also cause internal damage to the fob and lead to an issue. It is a good idea, that's why you should always carry an additional fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you currently have fails.

If the buttons on your key fob aren't working as they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good working condition. Key fobs do not require any special electronic device. They are powered by the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at hardware, drug, and online stores.

If the battery is in good condition the buttons could be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine if the problem is with yours, or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other fob is working, it's likely that your key fob has to be reset or even replaced completely.

Reprogramming

The hidden world of car key fobs is much more complex than some myths suggest. The basic fobs function on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs have to be programmed correctly to be able to be able to unlock and start the car. Unfortunately it's not as easy as pressing a few buttons and with a few exceptions, it must be handled by a dealer.

Refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only the dealership is able to create a new key fob and then resync it to your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service as well, so be sure to check reviews and prices before selecting the shop.

Some car models will erase all other fobs once they've been changed, so you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is a costly proposition particularly if you're just one functional fob. It's always wise to have a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the trunk and doors, even if it won't start the car.

Be prepared for a gruelling experience if you choose to reprogram your fob by yourself. You'll be disappointed with the numerous online guides that promise success. A lot of these guides were written by people with no prior experience in this field and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your car key fob in just a few clicks, which can be very misleading.

The battery is usually secured with an elastic clip that can be easily removed. However, the circuit board contains the battery, so you'll need to pry the battery out using an instrument. You should be able find the button battery. It's usually a small battery for a watch that can be purchased at any pharmacies or at home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally a straightforward procedure, and it's always a good idea to test first before replacing the entire unit.

Replacement

There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or malfunctioning 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 in-depth repair might be required. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in case one gets lost or stolen.

Most modern key fobs include an incredibly small physical key in addition to the electronics they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Certain "smart" fobs even have a built-in remote starter. Therefore, it's important to understand that it can take up to an hour for a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.

Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a tiny radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuitboard. By pressing a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to unlock the car and begin it from a distance without inserting the key into the ignition or turning a lock.

If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or work sporadically, it can indicate that they have been damaged due to water or other elements. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and examine for damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob, or buying an entirely new one.

Before you purchase a replacement fob online, you should seek out a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper however, you must look into the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable, but other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer is able to utilize.