How to Repair a Car Key Fob
Your key fob is likely to be tossed around frequently. This could cause the buttons to get stuck or break. You can give it a once-over and replacing the battery, if necessary.
Most cars use the coin-style battery, which you can purchase at pharmacies, big box stores and home improvement stores. Some models require programming equipment that is only available to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a compact and handy little device that makes getting into your vehicle and starting it much 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. Luckily, homesite is easy to replace. You can find replacements in auto parts stores, supermarkets, and some home improvement centers.
Some of the other features offered by the key fob may not function. This could be due to mechanical issues or an electrical problem inside the vehicle or even a malfunctioning deprogramming in the car's receiver. In these cases it is recommended to consult a professional.
Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers include a key slot made of mechanical inside the fob, which can be used in case of a dead battery. Most of the time the slot for keys is hidden behind a cover that is attached to the fob handle. The key's physical form can be put into the slot which allows you to unlock your door and start your vehicle. Make sure to insert the key fob back into the slot once you have started the vehicle.
If you have a Ford with SYNC Connect you can also start the car using the key fob. Most SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have an additional "E-blade" within the cupholder. This key is used to push the starter button if your key fob isn't able to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, ensure that your car's battery is charged and that you go through the owner's manual to see what the procedure is.
If your car continues to have problems after replacing the battery in your key fob, you may need to contact a locksmith or your dealer to have the battery or fob repaired. In some instances the key fob can be programmed to your car with a new battery at the dealership or at certain Interstate All Battery Center locations. This will only work as long as the antennas and circuit board have not been damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are bound to experience many years of wear and tear over the course of their lives. They are susceptible to falling and are often sat in pockets and purses. This jolting can cause the internal components to loosen or become damaged, resulting in them not responding when you press them. This issue can be solved by following a few steps, but you might also need to consult a locksmith.
Apart from batteries that are dead, the most common reason why a key fob for a car will not work is because it needs new batteries. These little coins-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive and are easy to find them at hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also find videos on YouTube and in the owner's manual of your device that explain how to replace the battery in your key fob.
It is important to know that certain keyfobs require an exact procedure to enter the required programming mode to change the batteries. In these cases, you will need to consult the owner's guide and/or an auto locksmith to ensure that you're following the correct procedure.
If the battery is dead, putting your key fob in extreme temperatures could cause it to cease functioning. In such a case you'll have to talk to an automotive locksmith or dealer for the replacement 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. It is possible to fix this issue by removing the key fob and putting the metallic tape over the contacts that are worn out.
It's important to remember that some key fobs can be extremely difficult to open and can't be opened with confidence without the right equipment that is only accessible at a dealer. If you try to open it using an screwdriver, or any other tool, you may end up damaging the internal circuit board. This could result in an expensive repair cost.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob remains capable of unlocking your car's doors and even start your engine but it's not working as far away as it used to, the problem may be with the circuit board. The circuit board is a small electronic chip inside the case that sends signals to your car, telling it whether or not to shut your doors, open the trunk and even switch off your ignition. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob won't be able transmit these signals.
You can repair damaged circuit boards on your own with a little technical knowledge. Remove the battery, then take the rubber button assembly and the holder from the circuit board. Use a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol to scrub around the contacts and plastic frame. This should remove any corrosion that is inhibiting the circuit board from transmitting signals.
After you've assembled your key fob, check whether it's in programming mode. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions. A lot of car manufacturers have online videos that show how to accomplish this. If you're not confident enough to do it yourself, you can take your key fob to a locksmith who is specialized in the model of your vehicle.
Certain key fobs that are newer have an integrated receiver that lets you to open your trunk and lock the doors, as well as switch on your ignition and start the engine from some distance. These are generally more reliable and operate across a wider area. If your key fob that is newer isn't functioning as far as it did previously it could be due to an antenna that is not working properly or other internal issue.
The most likely cause for the key fob not working is an insufficient or dead battery. It's affordable and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons on the fob are damaged, they will need to be professionally repaired and reprogrammed. This service is offered by the majority of dealerships, but you can find a service that specializes in your particular brand.
Forgotten Key
If you've lost your car keys fob, it's a nightmare. It's possible to turn your home upside down by retracing your steps and looking everywhere. This includes in bags, drawers and under couches. You'll find it eventually. Prevention is the best method to avoid losing your key fob. If you're susceptible to forgetfulness or have a slight touch of ADD Create several copies and distribute them to family and friends so that you won't be sweating and cursing for 4 hours if you lose your key fob.
Most cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your doors and in some cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more advanced models have even more exciting features, such as the ability to summon your car by pressing a button. This feature isn't in all models but if you own one of the cars that can do it (Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata are two examples) it's an amazing feature to have.
The good news is that if have an extra key fob that's programmed to your car then you can use it to start your vehicle in the event that you lose the original. homesite can also get in touch with an automotive locksmith to create an electronic key fob that can be programmed for your vehicle. However, before you do this make contact with your dealer to see if they can provide an alternative key fob at a cheaper cost.
If you don't have spare keys the only method to get your car started is by calling an auto locksmith to come out and make a new key or replace your current key fob with a blank. Dealers are also able to do this however they'll need your car to be towed as well as proof of ownership. The good thing is that these services are fairly affordable, particularly when compared with purchasing a new key from your dealership, which can cost $200-$250.