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

Over time, key fobs could be affected by issues such as loss of functionality. While some issues may require professional attention, the majority are fixable at home.

The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs have flat watch-style batteries that are easy to find at auto parts stores.

Dead Battery

It can be a major problem when a key fob's battery goes out. This is especially true when you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road even if your car's keyless entry isn't working.

The first thing to check is if the buttons on the fob are still working. If they aren't it could be a problem in the car's locks.

If the keys won't unlock try looking for a mechanical key slot concealed in the 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 unlock the door, some vehicles come with an application that lets you unlock it remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. These apps charge a monthly fee for subscription.

You should also check whether your key fob won't drain the batteries of your car by being plugged into them. A dead key fob can drain your battery fast particularly if it's used to control your phone or TV while you're watching.

Holding the key fob towards the start button may cause a key fob with an empty battery. It's a simple solution that could save you a trip to the dealership or select Interstate All Battery Center locations.

You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it's not working the battery of the fob requires replacement. It's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse.

Damaged Buttons

If your key fob is unable to unlock doors or start the car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons is damaged. The key fob may contain circuit boards with "contact pads" for each button. These tiny pads are covered with an electrically conducting film that wears down over time. This wear can cause your device to respond slow or not respond at all.

The pad that contacts car keys can be easily replaced with the flat-head screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed, it will be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto repair shop to have the fob repaired.

It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage, including breaking the keys and snapping them.

This could also cause internal damage to the fob and result in a malfunction. This is why it's always an ideal idea to keep an extra key fob in your purse or pocket in the event that you break the one you already have.

If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding in the way they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good working condition. Key fobs don't need a special type of electronic device. They are powered by the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. These batteries are available at drug, hardware, and online stores.


If the battery is working it's possible that the buttons are just dirty or worn down and can be easily cleaned using a moist cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, try a different type of key fob to see whether the problem is with yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other fob works it's likely that your key fob needs to be reset or perhaps replaced entirely.

Reprogramming

The world of car keys fobs is more complex than many myths suggest. Basic fobs work on radio frequency signals specific to each vehicle. The fobs need to be programmed correctly to be able to unlock and start the car. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing a few keys. It's usually handled by the dealer.

The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of your vehicle, so it's important to consult the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealerships are able to create a new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. However certain independent shops provide this service too so make sure to review reviews and prices prior to selecting a shop.

Some car models will wipe out all other fobs when they're programmed, meaning you'll have to have any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be expensive particularly if your fob is no longer working. It's always recommended to have at least one spare mechanical key you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it doesn't start the car.

Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you choose to reprogram your fob yourself. There are countless guides online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides are created by people who have no prior experience in this field and often are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob by yourself in just only a few clicks. This is a false claim.

The battery is typically held in place by an elastic clip that is easily removed. However, the circuit board contains the battery, and you will need to carefully remove the battery using a tool. You should be able to find the button cell battery. It's usually a small battery for watches that is available at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's generally simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole device, you should try it first.

Replacement

There are many ways to fix a damaged or non-functioning car key fob. It may be possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair might be required. It can also be helpful to have a spare key fob in case one is lost or stolen.

Most modern key fobs contain the physical key in addition the electronic component they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some "smart fobs" include remote starters. car keys repairs to know that it could take up to an hour to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle.

Fobs communicate with the car receiver using a tiny radio transmitter that is mounted on the circuit board. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, and it transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the vehicle from a distance without the need to put the key in the ignition.

If your fob's buttons are not responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and examine for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't solve the problem, try reprogramming the fob or purchasing a new fob.

It is recommended to consult a local auto dealer or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs less expensive, but it's crucial to study the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith others require specialized equipment to program them that can only be used by a car dealer or auto technician.