How to Repair a Car Key Fob
The key fob you have is likely to be tossed around frequently. This can cause its buttons to get stuck or damaged. You can try giving it a once-over and then swapping the battery if you need to.
Most cars use the coin-style battery that you can buy at big box stores as well as home improvement stores and pharmacies. Certain models require programming equipment that is only available to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a compact and useful device that makes getting into your vehicle and starting it more simple than ever. What happens when you press the button multiple times and nothing happens? The most frequent reason for this is the battery is dead. The battery can be easily replaced. You can purchase replacements at supermarkets and auto parts stores, as well as some home improvement stores.
Some of the other features that are available on the key fob might not function. This could be due to a mechanical issue, an electrical problem or even a deprogramming mistake within the car's receiver. In these situations, you should probably call a professional.
Thankfully, most manufacturers still have a key slot that is mechanical inside the fob to be used in case of an unresponsive battery. In most cases, the key slot is hidden behind a cover that is attached to the fob handle. You can insert the physical key into the slot to open your doors and start your vehicle. Be sure to re-insert the key fob when you start the vehicle!
If you own a Ford with SYNC Connect you can also start the car by using the key fob. The cupholder on most Fords with SYNC Connect has a backup "E blade". This key is used to push the starter button in case the key fob you have is not able to start the vehicle. To make the most effective use of this feature, you should make sure the battery is fully charged. You can also consult the owner's manual to learn how to use it.
If your car is still having problems after changing the battery in your key fob you may need to speak with an expert locksmith or your dealer to get the fob or battery repaired. In some instances, a new battery can be used to program the key fob with your vehicle at the dealership or choose Interstate All Battery Center stores. However, this is only possible in the event that the circuit board and antennas have not been damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are bound to suffer a lot of wear and wear and tear throughout their lives. They are susceptible to being dropped and are often sat in purses and pockets. The jolting may cause the internal components to become loose or damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. A few easy steps can often solve this issue, but sometimes you may have to take your device to a professional locksmith.
Apart from an inoperable battery The most frequent reason a car key fob can't function is because it requires new batteries. These little coin-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive and are easy to find them in large-box stores or hardware stores. You can also look up videos on YouTube and in the owner's manual of your device that provide instructions on how to replace the battery in your key fob.
It's also important to be aware that some key fobs require a particular procedure to enter the programming mode required for changing the battery. In these instances you'll have to consult your owner's manual and/or an authorized auto locksmith to ensure you're following the correct procedure.
If the battery is dead, putting your key fob at extreme temperatures could cause it to stop functioning. If This Web page happens, you will have to call an automotive locksmith or a dealer for a new fob.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding, it could be that the contacts inside are worn out. These contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity-conducting film, but they can start to wear out over time due to repeated use. You can fix this problem by removing the key fob and placing an aluminum strip over the contacts that are worn out.
It is crucial to understand that certain key fobs are extremely difficult to open. They can only be opened using specialized tools available at a dealership. If you try to open yours using a screwdriver or another tool, it's possible you could break the circuit board inside, and end up with an expense for repairs that is higher than you needed.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob is in a position to unlock your car doors and start your engine, but it's not as well as it did in the past it could be the issue with the circuit board. The circuit board is an electronic chip that's within the case. It sends signals to the car telling it that you want to lock the doors, open the trunk or switch off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob won't be able to transmit these signals.
You can fix damaged circuit boards by yourself If you have some technical know-how. Remove the battery, then separate the rubber button assembly and the holder from the circuit board. Clean the contacts and plastic frame using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This should remove any rust that is preventing the circuit board to transmit signals.
Then, once you've reassembled the key fob, be sure it's in programming mode. Usually, car remote key repair requires switching it off and on repeatedly, so make sure to check your owner's manual for specific instructions. A lot of car manufacturers have videos online that demonstrate how to do it. If you're not confident enough to do it yourself, you can take your key fob to a locksmith that is trained to work on the specific model of your vehicle.
Certain key fobs that are newer have a built-in receiver that enables you to unlock your trunk and open the doors, as well as turn on the ignition and start your engine from a distance. They are generally more reliable and operate across a wider area. If your newer key fob isn't working as well as it did previously, it could have an antenna that is not working properly or other issue within the internals.
The most likely cause for a key fob that isn't working is a dead or low battery. It's affordable and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons of the fob are damaged, it will require professional repair and reset. This service is available through many dealerships, however you can find a service that is specialized in your specific car model.
Forgotten Key
If you've lost your car keys fob, it's a nightmare. It's possible to turn your house upside down retracing your steps and searching all over including in drawers, bags, under couches, and even your cat's bed. You'll eventually find it. But the best way to prevent losing your key fob is by taking precautions. If you're prone to forgetfulness or have a slight touch of ADD, make several copies and distribute them to your family and friends so that you won't be sweating and cursing for four hours should you lose your key fob.
The majority of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your doors. You can also sometimes set off an alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more advanced models come with even more cool features, such as the ability to summon your car by pressing a button. This feature isn't in every model however if you own one of the cars that do it (Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata are two examples), this is an awesome feature to have.
The good thing is that if you have a spare key fob programmed to your car, then you can use it to start your car in the event that you lose the original. You can also reach out to an automotive locksmith and request them create the new key fob which has specifically programmed for your vehicle. Talk to your dealer to find out whether a replacement keyfob might be available for sale at a lower cost.
If you don't have a spare key the only way to get your car started is by calling an auto locksmith to come out and cut a new key or replace your current key fob with an empty. Dealers can also help with this, but you'll need to get your car towed and some documents to prove ownership. But the good news is that these services are inexpensive, especially compared to buying a new key from your dealer that could cost anywhere from $200 to $250.