How to Repair a Car Key Fob
Your key fob will likely be jostled often. This can cause its buttons to get stuck or break. If it is necessary, give it a thorough cleaning and replace the battery.
The majority of cars have a coin-style battery that you can purchase at pharmacies and big box stores, as well as home improvement stores. Read Even more require programming equipment that is available only to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob makes it easy to start your car and even get it into. What happens if you press the button several times but 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 even some home improvement centers.
Other features offered by the key fob might not function. This could be due to a mechanical problem or an electrical issue inside the car or even a malfunctioning deprogramming in the receiver of your car. In these cases it is recommended to consult a professional.
Most manufacturers have an electronic slot inside the fob that can be used in the event of dead cells. Most of the time the slot for keys is concealed behind a cover on the handle of the fob. You can insert your physical key into the slot to unlock your doors and then start your vehicle. Make sure to insert the key fob when you have started the car!
If you happen to own a Ford car with SYNC Connect, there's a method of starting the car without using the key fob. Most of the SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have an additional "E-blade" in the cupholder. you can try this out is used to press the starter button in the event that your key fob isn't able to start the vehicle. To get the most out of this feature, ensure that the car battery is charged and that you read your owner's manual to find out what the procedure is.
If your car is still having problems after replacing the battery on your key fob, you may need to speak with an expert locksmith or your dealer to have the battery or fob repaired. In certain cases the key fob can be programmed to your vehicle with a new battery at the dealership or at select Interstate All Battery Center locations. But this will only work in the event that the circuit board and antennas aren't damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are likely to experience many years of wear and wear over the course of their lives. They are prone to dropping and are often sat in purses and pockets. The jolting could cause the internal components to become loose or damaged, resulting in them not responding when you press them. This problem can be fixed by following a few steps, but you might also need to consult a locksmith.
Apart from an inoperable battery, the most common reason a car key fob can't function is because it needs new batteries. These small coin-shaped batteries can be found at most hardware stores and large-box retailers. They aren't expensive. You can also look up videos on YouTube and in the owner's manual of your device that explain how to replace the battery in your key fob.
It's also important to be aware that certain key fobs require a particular procedure to enter the programming mode required for changing the battery. In these cases, you will need to consult the owner's guide and/or an auto locksmith to ensure that you follow the correct procedure.
The fob you have left in extreme hot or cold temperatures can cause it to stop working, especially when the battery has failed. If this happens, you will need to contact an automotive locksmith or a dealer for a new 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. It is possible to fix this issue by taking apart the key fob, and then placing the metallic tape over the worn out contacts.
It's important to note that some key fobs can be extremely difficult to open and cannot be opened safely without the use of specialized equipment only accessible at a dealer. If you try to open it using the use of a screwdriver or other tool, you could 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 behind your key fob not functioning as well as it did too. The circuit board is an electronic chip that's inside the case. It sends signals to the car telling it that you want to lock the doors, open the trunk or switch off the ignition. If the circuit board has been damaged, your key fob will not be able to send these signals.
Repairing the damaged circuit board by yourself If you have some technical know-how. Start by removing the battery and taking the rubber button and holder assembly from the circuit board. Use a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol to clean around the contacts and the plastic frame. This should remove any rust that blocks 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. The majority of car manufacturers have videos online that show how to do this. If you're not confident enough to tackle it yourself, take your key fob to a locksmith that is specialized in the model of your vehicle.
Some newer key fobs feature an integrated receiver that lets you to open your trunk and lock the doors, as well as switch on your ignition and start your engine from an extended distance. Generally, these are much more reliable and work over a greater range. If your latest key fob isn't working as far away as it used to it could be due to an issue with the antenna or other internal issue.
The most likely reason for the key fob not working is a dead or low battery. It is cheap and easy to replace. But if the fob's buttons or circuit board are damaged, you'll need get it repaired professionally and reset. Many dealerships offer this service, but you can also find a service that specializes in the model of your car.
Forgotten Key
It can be an absolute nightmare if you lose your car keys. You could turn your home upside down and retrace your steps and searching everywhere, including in drawers, bags and under couches, and even under your cat's bed. You'll eventually find it. It is best to take preventative measures as a method to avoid losing your key fob. If you've got even a touch of minor ADD or are simply forgetful, make several copies and distribute them to your close family and friends members, so that if you lose yours you don't spend 4 hours covered in sweat and cursing yourself for the rest of your life.
Most cars come with key fobs that let you lock and unlock your doors. They also in some cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more sophisticated models offer even cooler features like the ability call your car's location by pressing the button. This feature is not available on all models, but if your car is one of the models that can be controlled - the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for example You're in luck.
If you have an extra car key fob programmed for your vehicle, you can make use of it in the event that you lose the original. You can also contact an automotive locksmith to create an electronic key fob that can be specifically programmed for your vehicle. However, before you do this make contact with your dealer to determine if they are able to offer the replacement key fob for you at a lower price.
If you don't own an extra and you don't have a spare, the only way to start your vehicle is to contact an auto locksmith to replace your current key fob or create an entirely new one. Dealers can also do this, but you'll need to have your car towed in and provide proof of ownership papers. These services are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of a replacement key at your dealer.