How to Repair a Car Key Fob
The key fob you have is likely to be tossed around a lot. This can cause the buttons to get stuck or damaged. You can give it a thorough check and then swapping the battery, if necessary.
Most cars are equipped with the coin-style battery, which you can buy from pharmacies, big box stores and home improvement stores. Certain models require programming equipment that is available only to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob can make it easier to start your vehicle, and even get it into. What happens when you press the button multiple times and nothing happens? This usually happens due to an inactive or dying battery. Fortunately, the battery can be easy to replace. You can locate replacements at auto parts stores, supermarkets, and some home improvement centers.
A few of the other features that are available on the key fob might not work. 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 situations you should definitely contact an expert.
The majority of manufacturers include a mechanical slot in the fob to be used in the event of a dead cell. Most of the time the key slot is concealed behind a cover on the fob handle. The physical key can be put into the slot which allows you to unlock your door and start your car. Make sure to insert the key fob after you have started the vehicle!
If you're fortunate enough to own a Ford vehicle that is equipped with SYNC Connect, there's a method of starting the car without using the key fob. The cupholder on the majority of Fords equipped with SYNC Connect has a backup "E blade". This is a key that's mechanical that can be used to push the starter button in the event that your key fob not be able to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, ensure that the battery in your car is charged and review the owner's manual in order to find out what the procedure is.
If your car continues to have issues after replacing the battery in your key fob you may need to contact an authorized locksmith or dealer to get the battery or fob repaired. In certain cases the key fob could be programmed to your car with a new battery at the dealership or at certain Interstate All Battery Center locations. But this will only work when the circuit board and antennas are not damaged.
Damaged Buttons
Over the course of its life your car key fob's buttons are bound to undergo a lot of wear and tear. They're susceptible to droppings, and they spend a lot of time being tossed around in purses and pockets. This jolting can cause the internal components to loosen or become damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. This problem can be fixed by following a few steps, but you may also need to consult a locksmith.
The most frequent reason for a car keyfob to stop working is that the batteries are dead. These little coin-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive and it's easy to find them at large-box stores or hardware stores. You can also find videos that explain how to replace the key fob battery on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
It is important to know that some keyfobs need specific steps to enter the required programming mode to change the batteries. In these cases you'll need read the owner's manual or an auto locksmith to ensure you are following the correct procedure.
If the battery is not working, leaving your key fob at extreme temperatures can cause it to stop working. In this instance you'll need to contact an automotive locksmith or dealer for a replacement fob.
If your key fob's buttons remain unresponsive it could be because 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 try to fix this by taking the key fob off and putting a piece of metallic tape over the worn out contacts.
It's important to remember that certain key fobs can be extremely difficult to open and can't be opened safely without the use of specialized equipment that is only accessible at a dealer. If you try to open yours using a screwdriver or another tool, it's possible you could damage the internal circuit board and pay a more expensive repair bill than you might have otherwise needed.
Circuit Board Issues
The circuit board may be the reason for your key fob not working in the same way it used to. The circuit board is an electronic chip inside the case that transmits signals to your car telling it to lock your doors, open the trunk, or switch off your ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your keyfob isn't able to transmit these signals.
You can repair the damaged circuit board at home if you have some technical expertise. Begin by removing the battery and separate the rubber button and holder assembly from the circuit board. Clean the plastic frame and contacts with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This should eliminate any corrosion that has stopped the circuit board from transmitting signals.
Once you've reassembled the key fob, ensure that it's in programming mode. Usually, this means turning it on and off several times, so be sure to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. The majority of car manufacturers have videos online that will show you how to accomplish this. If you are not confident to complete the task then you can take your key fob into the locksmith that specializes in the model of your vehicle.
Some modern key fobs have an integrated receiver that lets you to unlock your trunk and open the doors, and also switch on your ignition and start the engine from some distance. They are generally more reliable and operate over a wider range. If your latest key fob isn't working as far away as it did in the past, it could have an antenna that is not working properly or other internal issue.
If you can't get your key fob to work The most likely cause is a dead battery. It's inexpensive and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons on the fob are damaged, it's going to need to be professionally repaired and reset. This service is available through the majority of dealerships, but you can find a service that is specialized in your specific car model.
Forgotten Key
It can be an absolute nightmare if you lose your car keys. It's possible to turn your house upside down, retracing your steps and searching everywhere, including in drawers, bags, under couches, and even your cat's bed. You'll find it eventually. Prevention is the best way to prevent losing your key fob. If you have even a touch of minor ADD or are simply forgetful, make several copies and give them to family and close friends members, so that when you lose yours, you won't spend 4 hours sweating and cursing yourself for the rest of your life.
Most cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your doors and sometimes you can set off the alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more advanced models have even more exciting features, like the ability to summon your car by pressing the button. This feature is not available on all models, but if your car is one of the models that can do it - the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance and you're a lucky person, then you're in good hands.
The good thing is that if you have a spare key fob that's programmed to your vehicle, then you can use it to start your car in the event you lose the original. You can also contact an automotive locksmith to make the key fob programmed to your vehicle. Check with your dealer to determine whether a replacement keyfob is available for sale at a lower cost.
If you don't own an extra key alternative to start your car is to call an auto locksmith who will either replace your existing key fob or create a new one. Dealers can also help, but they will need your vehicle to be towed and proof of ownership. These services are relatively inexpensive particularly when compared to the cost of a replacement key at your dealer.