How to Repair a Car Key Fob
Your key fob gets jostled around a lot, so the buttons could get stuck or broken. If necessary, you can give it a once over and replace the battery.
Most cars are powered by the coin-style battery available 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 tiny and handy little device that makes entering your car and starting it more simple than ever. What happens if you press the button several times but nothing happens? This is usually caused by dying or dead batteries. The battery can be replaced easily. You can get replacements in supermarkets and auto parts stores and also at some home improvement centers.
A few of the other features available through the key fob might not function. This could be due to a mechanical problem, an internal electrical issue or even a deprogramming error in the car's receiver. In these situations, it's probably best to consult an expert.
Fortunately, a majority of manufacturers include a key slot made of mechanical inside the fob for use in the event of an unresponsive battery. In most cases, a cover will be attached to the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. You can insert the physical key into the slot to unlock your doors and start your vehicle. Don't forget to insert the key fob back into the slot once you have started the car.
If you have a Ford equipped with SYNC Connect, you are able to start the car using the key fob. The cupholder in most Fords with SYNC Connect has a backup "E blade". It is a mechanical key that can be used to push the starter button in the event that your key fob fail to start the vehicle. For the best use of this feature, ensure that the battery is charged. You can also refer to the owner's manual for instructions on how to do it.
If your car is still having issues after replacing the battery on your key fob, you might need to call a locksmith or your dealer to get the battery or fob repaired. In certain cases, the key fob can be programmed into your car by replacing the battery at the dealership or at certain Interstate All Battery Center locations. This will only work as long as the antennas and circuit board are not damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are bound to experience an extensive amount of wear and wear and tear throughout their lives. They are susceptible to dropping, and they are frequently being tossed around in pockets and purses. This can cause internal components to get damaged or loose, which will result in them not responding to your touch. A few simple steps can solve this issue, but at times, you may have to take your device to an expert locksmith.
The most common reason for a car keyfob to stop working is that the batteries are dead. These little coins-shaped batteries are fairly inexpensive and are easy to find them at hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also look up videos on YouTube and in your owner's manual that describe 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 to replace the battery. In these instances, you will need to consult the owner's guide and/or an auto locksmith to make sure you are following the proper procedure.
Leaving your key fob in extreme cold or hot temperatures can also cause it to cease working in particular in the event that the battery has gone out. If this happens, you'll need to contact an automotive locksmith or dealer for a new fob.
If the buttons on your key fob still don't respond, 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 taking apart the key fob and placing the metallic tape over the worn-out contacts.
It is important to know that some key fobs are extremely difficult to open. They can only be opened using specialized tools that can be purchased from a dealer. If you attempt to open yours with the screwdriver or any other tool it's likely that you'll break the circuit board inside and incur an expensive repair bill than you would have required.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob remains able to unlock the doors of your car and start your engine, however, it's not functioning as far as it used to it could be the issue with the circuit board. The circuit board is an electronic chip in the case. It sends signals to the car telling 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 isn't able to transmit these signals.
If you're a tech expert, you can repair a damaged circuitboard yourself. Remove the battery, and then take the rubber button assembly and holder from the circuit board. Clean the plastic frame and contacts with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This should remove any rust that is preventing the circuit board to transmit signals.
After reassembling your key fob, make sure whether it's in programming mode. Go through the owner's manual to find instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers also have videos on the internet that show how to do this. If you're not confident enough to complete it yourself, you can bring your key fob to a locksmith who is trained to work on the specific model of your vehicle.
car key remote repair of the latest key fobs have a receiver built in that lets you access your trunk, lock your doors, and turn on your ignition from some distance. They are generally more reliable and operate over a greater range. If your key fob does not perform as well as it used too, it may have an internal problem that's not working properly or an external antenna that is not working properly.
If you're having trouble getting your key fob working The most likely cause is a dead battery. It is cheap and easy to change. If the circuit board or buttons of the fob are damaged, it's going to require professional repair and programmed again. This service is offered by many dealerships, however you can also find a shop specializing in your car brand.
Forgotten Key
When you've lost your car key fob, it's an absolute nightmare. You can turn your home upside down, retracing your steps and searching all over including in drawers, bags or under couches, and even in your cat's bed. You'll find it eventually. The best way to avoid losing your key fob is to taking preventative measures. If you've got even a little ADD or are simply forgetful, make several copies and hand them out to your close family and friends members, so that when you lose yours, you don't spend four hours covered in sweat and cursing yourself for the rest of your life.
Most cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your doors. They also, in some cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more advanced models come with even more cool features, like the ability to summon your car by pressing a button. This feature isn't available in every model but if you own one of the cars that do it (Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata are two examples), this is an amazing feature to have.
The good news is that if have an extra key fob that's programmed to your vehicle, then you can use it to start your vehicle in the event that you lose your original. You can also talk to an automotive locksmith to have them create the new key fob which has been programmed to your specific vehicle. Contact your dealer to determine whether a replacement keyfob might be available at a lower cost.
If you don't have a spare key, the only method to get your car started is to call an auto locksmith to come out and either cut a new one or replace your current key fob with blank. Dealers can also do this but they'll require your vehicle to be towed and a proof of ownership. These services are relatively inexpensive in comparison to the cost of a replacement key at your dealership.