How to Repair a Car Key Fob
The key fob is jostled around a lot, and its buttons can be damaged or stuck. If it is necessary, give it a good cleaning and replace the battery.
The majority of cars have batteries that are coin-style 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 convenient device that makes entering your vehicle and launching it more simple than ever. But what happens if you press the button a few times and your car isn't responding? The most common reason for this is the battery is dead. The battery can be replaced easily. You can find replacements in auto parts stores and supermarkets and also at some home improvement stores.
Other features available through the key fob might not function. This could be due to an issue with the mechanical system or an electrical issue, or even a mishap with the deprogramming within the car's receiver. In these cases it is recommended to contact an expert.
Fortunately, a majority of manufacturers include a key slot made of mechanical inside the fob to be used in the event of an inoperative battery. In the majority of cases, a cover will be put on the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. The key's physical form can be put into the slot which will allow you to unlock your door and start your vehicle. Just don't forget to re-insert the key fob when you have started the vehicle!
If you're fortunate enough to have a Ford car with SYNC Connect, there's a way you can start the car without using the key fob. Most of the SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have an additional "E-blade" within the cupholder. This is a key that's mechanical that can be used to push the starter button should your key fob not be able to start the vehicle. To make the most effective use of this feature, make sure the battery is fully charged. You can also refer to your owner's manual to find out the best way to use it.
If your car still has issues after replacing the battery in your key fob, you might need to call an expert locksmith or your dealer to get the fob or battery repaired. In certain cases it is possible to get a new battery that can be used to program the key fob with your car at the dealership or select Interstate All Battery Center stores. But this will only work if the circuit board and antennas have not been damaged.
Damaged Buttons
In the course of its life the car key fob's buttons are likely to undergo a lot wear and tear. They are susceptible to being dropped and spend a lot time in pockets and purses. This could cause internal components to get damaged or loose, which will result in them not responding to your pressing. This problem can be fixed with a few easy steps, however 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 tiny coin-shaped batteries are available at a majority of hardware stores as well as large-box retailers. They are inexpensive. You can also find videos on YouTube and in the owner's manual of your device that describe how to replace the battery on your key fob.
It's important to remember that some keyfobs require a specific procedure to enter the required programming mode to change the batteries. In these instances you'll need to refer to your owner's manual and/or an auto locksmith that is reputable to ensure you're following the correct procedure.
Leaving your key fob in extreme hot or cold temperatures can cause it to stop working, especially if the battery has died. In such a case, you'll need to consult an automotive locksmith or your dealer to get a replacement fob.
If you still can't press the buttons on your key fob, it could 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 taking apart the key fob, and then placing a piece metallic tape over the worn out contacts.
It is important to know that certain key fobs are extremely tricky to open and can't be opened safely without the use of specialized tools that are only available at a dealership. If you try to open yours using the screwdriver or any other tool it's possible to break the internal circuit board and pay a more expensive repair bill than you might have otherwise needed.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob is still capable of unlocking your car doors and start your engine but it's not as far as it used to it could be a problem with the circuit board. The circuit board is a small electronic chip inside the case that sends signals to your car, telling it to lock your doors, open the trunk and even switch off your ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your key fob won't be able transmit these signals.
If you're a tech expert you can repair damaged circuit boards yourself. Remove the battery, then separate the rubber button assembly and the holder from the circuit board. Make use of a cotton swab or some rubbing alcohol to scrub around the contacts and plastic frame. This should eliminate any corrosion that is inhibiting the circuit board from transmitting signals.
After reassembling your key fob, verify that it is in programming mode. Check your owner's guide for instructions. Many car manufacturers have videos online that demonstrate how to do it. If you're not sure how to do this then you can take your key fob to the locksmith that specializes in the model of your vehicle.
Certain of the latest key fobs have an integrated receiver that lets you open your trunk, lock your doors, and turn on your ignition from some distance. They're generally more reliable and work across a wider area. If your key fob doesn't work as far 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.
If you're unable to get your key fob to work The most likely cause is the battery is dead. It's cheap and simple to change. If the circuit board or buttons on the fob are damaged, it will require professional repair and reprogrammed. Most dealerships provide this service, but you can also find a shop that specializes in the model of your car.
Forgotten Key
If you've lost your car keys fob, it's a nightmare. You could turn your home upside down, retracing your steps and searching everywhere including in bags, drawers or under couches, and even in your cat's bed. You'll eventually find it. However, car key and repair to ensure you don't lose your key fob is to taking preventative measures. If you are prone to forgetfulness or have a slight hint of ADD, make several copies and give these to your family and friends so that you won't be in a state of panic and worry for four hours if you lose your key fob.
Many cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock the doors, and in certain instances activate the alarm system or open the trunk. Some of the more sophisticated models have even more exciting features, such as the ability to summon your car using a button. This feature isn't in every model however if you own one of the cars that do it (Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata are two examples) it's an amazing feature to have.
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 vehicle in the event you lose your original. You can also ask an automotive locksmith to create a key fob that is specifically programmed for your vehicle. Contact your dealer to find out if a replacement keyfob is available at a lower cost.
If you don't have an extra key the only way to get your car started is to contact an auto locksmith to come out and make a new key or replace the current key fob with a blank. Dealers are also able to do this but they'll require your car to be towed as well as proof of ownership. But the good thing is that these services are fairly affordable, especially when compared to getting a new replacement key from your dealer that could cost anywhere from $200 to $250.