How to Repair a Car Key Fob
You key fob is likely to be tossed around a lot. This can cause its buttons to become stuck or broken. If necessary, you can give it a good cleaning and replace the battery.
Most cars are powered by the coin-style battery that you can buy at big box stores, home improvement retailers and pharmacies. However, some models require special programming equipment that only dealers have.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a compact and useful device that makes getting into your vehicle and starting it easier than ever. What happens when you press the button a few times but nothing happens? This usually happens due to a dead or dying battery. The battery can be replaced easily. You can get replacements in auto parts stores and supermarkets and also at some home improvement centers.
Other features that are available on the key fob may not function. This could be because of an issue with the mechanical system, an internal electrical issue or even a malfunctioning deprogramming in the receiver of your car. In these cases it is recommended to consult an expert.
Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers include a key slot made of mechanical inside the fob, which can be used in the event of an inoperative battery. In the majority of instances, a cover is attached to the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. The physical key can be put into the slot which will allow you to open your door and start your vehicle. Make sure to insert the key fob back into the slot after you have started the vehicle.
If you happen to have a Ford car that has SYNC Connect, there's an additional method of starting the car without using the key fob. The majority of SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles come with a backup "E-blade" inside the cupholder. It is a mechanical key that can be used to press the starter button, should your key fob fails to start the vehicle. To make key repair car of this feature, you should make sure the battery is charged. You can also refer to the owner's manual to find out how to use it.
If you're still having issues with your car after replacing the key fob battery it could be time to call a locksmith or your dealership to have the battery replaced or to repair the fob. In some instances it is possible to get a new battery that can be used to program the key fob using your car at the dealership or choose Interstate All Battery Center stores. However, this can only be done if the circuit board and antennas aren't damaged.
Damaged Buttons
Over the course of time, your car key fob's buttons are likely to see a lot wear and wear and tear. They are susceptible to falling and spend a lot time in pockets and purses. The jolting could cause the internal components to become loose or damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. This issue can be solved with a few easy steps, but you might also need to consult a locksmith.
Apart from batteries that are dead The most frequent reason why a key fob for a car can't function is because it requires new batteries. These little coin-shaped batteries are fairly inexpensive and are easy to find them in hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also find videos that explain how to replace the battery for your key fob on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
However, it's important to be aware that some key fobs require a specific procedure to enter the programming mode necessary to replace the battery. In such cases, you'll need to consult the owner's manual or an authorized auto locksmith to ensure that you're following the correct procedure.
If you leave your key fob in extreme cold or hot temperatures can also cause it to cease working in particular when the battery has failed. In this instance you'll have to talk to an automotive locksmith or dealer for the replacement fob.
If you still can't press the buttons on your key fob, it may be due to the fact that the contacts 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. It is possible to fix this issue by dismantling the key fob, and then placing the metallic tape over the worn out contacts.
It is important to know that certain key fobs can be extremely tricky to open and cannot be opened safely without the use of specialized equipment only available at a dealership. If you try to open it with an instrument like a screwdriver or other it's likely that you'll damage the internal circuit board and end up with an expense for repairs that is higher than you might have otherwise required.
Circuit Board Issues
The circuit board may be the reason for your key fob's not working as well as it did to. The circuit board is an electronic chip inside the case. It sends signals to the car that tell it if you want to close the doors, lock the trunk, or turn off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your key fob won't be able to send these signals.
You can repair a damaged circuit board on your own with a little technical expertise. Begin by removing the battery and separating the rubber button and holder assembly from the circuit board. Clean the contacts and plastic frame using rubbing alcohol and cotton swab. This should eliminate any corrosion that blocks the circuit board from transmitting signals.
Once you've reassembled your key fob, verify that it can enter the programming mode. Usually, this means turning it on and off repeatedly, so make sure to check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Many car manufacturers have online videos that show how to accomplish this. If you're not sure to complete the task then you can take your key fob to the locksmith that specializes in the model of your vehicle.
Some of the newer key fobs have a receiver built in that lets you access your trunk, lock your doors and turn on your ignition from a distance. They're generally more reliable and operate across a wider area. If your key fob does not perform as well as it did in the past it could be due to an internal issue that isn't working or an external antenna that is not working properly.
The most likely cause for the key fob not working is an insufficient or dead battery. It's cheap and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons on the fob are damaged, it will require professional repair and reprogrammed. This service is available through the majority of dealerships, but you can find a service specializing in your car brand.
Forgotten Key
If you've lost your car key fob, it could be a nightmare. You can turn your home upside down, retracing your steps, and looking everywhere including in bags, drawers, under couches, and even under your cat's bed. You'll eventually find it. But the best way to avoid losing your key fob is to taking preventative measures. If you have even a little ADD or just not paying attention, make several copies and hand them out to family and close friends members, so that if you lose yours, you won't spend 4 hours covered in sweat and cursing yourself for the rest of your life.
A lot of cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and in some instances activate the alarm system or open the trunk. Some of the more sophisticated models offer even cooler features, such as the ability to call your car's location by pressing a button. This feature isn't available in all models but 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 news is that if you have an extra key fob that's 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 was programmed to your specific vehicle. However, before doing this consult with your dealer to see if they can offer a replacement key fob at a cheaper cost.
If you don't have an extra key the only method to start your car is to contact an auto locksmith to come out and either cut a new key or replace your current key fob with blank. Dealers are also able to do this but they'll require your vehicle to be towed and proof of ownership. These services are fairly inexpensive in comparison to the cost of replacing a key at the dealership.