How to Repair a Car Key Fob
Your key fob gets jostled around a lot, so the buttons may get stuck or broken. Try giving it a thorough check and swapping out the battery, if needed.
The majority of cars have batteries that look like coins. You can buy from pharmacies or big box stores as well as home improvement stores. 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 getting into your vehicle and launching it more simple than ever. What happens if you press the button several times and nothing happens? The most frequent reason for this is a dead battery. Luckily, the battery is simple to replace. You can get replacements in auto parts stores and supermarkets as well as home improvement centers.
A few of the other features that are available on the key fob may not work. It 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's best to call a professional.
Thankfully, most manufacturers still include a key slot made of mechanical inside the fob to be used in the event of a dead battery. In most cases the slot for keys is hidden behind a cover on the fob handle. The key's physical form can be put into the slot which will allow you to open your door and start your car. Don't forget to insert the key fob back into the slot after you've started the vehicle.
If you have a Ford equipped with SYNC Connect you can also start the car by using the key fob. The cupholder in most Fords with SYNC Connect has a backup "E blade". This is a mechanical key that can be used to press the starter button should your key fob fails to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, ensure that the battery in your car is charged and go through the owner's manual to see what the procedure is.
If your car still has issues after replacing the battery on your key fob, you may need to contact an expert locksmith or your dealer to get the fob or battery repaired. In certain cases, the key fob can be programmed to your car by replacing the battery at the dealership or at select Interstate All Battery Center locations. But this will only work if the circuit board and antennas aren't damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are likely to suffer a lot of wear and wear and tear throughout their lives. They're prone to drops and spend a lot of time being tossed around in pockets and purses. This jolting can cause internal components to become loose or damaged, resulting in them not responding when you press them. This issue can be solved by following a few steps, but you may be required to speak with a locksmith.
The most frequent reason for a car keyfob to stop working is that the batteries are dead. These small coin-shaped batteries can be found at most hardware stores and large-box retailers. They are inexpensive. You can also find videos on how to replace the key fob battery on YouTube or in your owner's guide.
It's important to note that certain keyfobs require a specific procedure to enter the appropriate programming mode to change the batteries. In these cases you'll have to consult the owner's manual or a reputable auto locksmith to make sure you're following the proper procedure.
The fob you have left in extreme hot or cold temperatures can also cause it to cease working particularly in the event that the battery has gone out. In this case you'll need to contact an automotive locksmith or dealer to get an alternative fob.
If you are still unable to press the buttons on your key fob, it may be due to the contacts being 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 an aluminum strip over the worn-out contacts.
It's important to remember that some key fobs can be difficult to open and cannot be opened with confidence without the right equipment only available at a dealership. If you attempt to open it with the use of a screwdriver or other tool, you may end in causing damage to the internal circuit board. This could result in an expensive repair cost.
Circuit Board Issues
The circuit board may be the reason for your key fob's not working in the same way it used to. The circuit board is a small electronic chip in the case that transmits signals to your car, telling it whether or not to lock your doors, open the trunk and even turn off your ignition. If the circuit board has been damaged, your key fob will not be able to send these signals.
If you have the technical know-how, you can repair a damaged circuitboard yourself. Remove the battery, and then separate the rubber button assembly and holder from the circuit board. Clean the plastic frame and contacts using rubbing alcohol and cotton swab. This should eliminate any corrosion that is inhibiting the circuit board from transmitting signals.
Once you've reassembled your key fob, verify whether it's in programming mode. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions. Many car manufacturers have online videos that explain how to do it. If you are not confident to do this, you can bring your key fob into a locksmith who specializes in the model of your car.
Some modern key fobs have a built-in receiver that allows you to open your trunk and lock the doors, and also turn on your ignition and start the engine from some distance. They are generally more reliable and operate across a wider range. If your key fob that is newer isn't working as well as it did in the past, it could have a faulty antenna or some other issue within the internals.
The most likely cause of the key fob not working is the battery is dead or not functioning properly. It's cheap and easy to replace. But if the fob's buttons or circuit board is damaged, you'll need to be able to have it repaired professionally and reprogrammed. Many dealerships offer this service however, you can locate a shop that is specialized in your car's brand.
Forgotten Key
It can be a nightmare when you lose your car keys. It's possible to turn your house upside down retracing your steps, and looking everywhere, including in bags, drawers and under couches, and even your cat's bed. Then, you'll discover it. Prevention is the best method to avoid losing your key fob. If you've even a little ADD or are simply forgetful, make multiple copies and hand them out to close friends and family members, so that if you lose yours you don't spend four hours covered in sweat and blaming yourself for the rest of your life.
A lot of cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock the doors, and in certain cases, activate the alarm system or open the trunk. However, some of the more advanced models have more advanced features, like the capability to summon your car with the push of a button. This feature isn't included in every model however if you own one of the cars that can do it (Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata are two examples), this is an awesome feature to have.
If you have a spare car key fob that has been programmed to your vehicle, you may make use of it in the event that you lose the original. You can also reach out to an automotive locksmith and have them create a new key fob that's been programmed to your specific vehicle. But before you do, check with your dealership to see if they're able to offer the replacement key fob for you at a cheaper cost.
If you don't have spare keys, the only way to get your car started is by calling an auto locksmith to come out and either cut a new key or replace your current key fob with a blank. car key immobiliser repair are also able to do this but they will need your vehicle to be towed as well as proof of ownership. These services are relatively inexpensive particularly when compared to the cost of replacing a key at the dealership.