How to Repair a Car Key Fob
Your key fob gets jostled around a lot, so the buttons could become stuck or damaged. You can try giving it a good clean and swapping out the battery if you need to.
Most cars are equipped with the coin-style battery, which you can buy from pharmacies and big box stores, as well as home improvement stores. However certain models require specialized programming equipment that only dealers have.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a small and convenient device that makes entering your vehicle and launching it easier than ever. What happens if you press the button multiple times, but nothing happens? It's usually due to dying or dead batteries. Fortunately, the battery is easy to replace. You can find replacements at auto parts stores, supermarkets and even some home improvement centers.
Other features available through the key fob may not function. This could be because of mechanical issues or an electrical problem inside the vehicle or even a deprogramming error in the car's receiver. In these instances, you should probably consult a professional.
The majority of manufacturers include an electronic slot inside the fob that can be used in the event of dead cells. In the majority of instances, a cover is put on the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. The key's physical form can be placed into the slot which will allow you to unlock your door and start your car. Just don't forget to re-insert the key fob when you start the car!
If you're fortunate enough to own a Ford car with SYNC Connect, there's an additional way you can start the car without the key fob. The cupholder in most Fords with SYNC Connect has a backup "E blade". This mechanical key can be used to push the starter button in the event that your key fob isn't able to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, you should make sure the battery is fully charged. You can also refer to your owner's guide to learn how to use it.
If you're having problems with your car after changing the battery in your key fob, it may be the right time to contact a locksmith or your dealership to get the battery replaced or the fob repaired. In some cases it is possible to get a new battery that can be used to program the key fob in your vehicle at the dealership, or you can choose Interstate All Battery Center stores. However, this can only be done if the circuit board and antennas are not damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are likely to suffer an extensive amount of wear and wear over the course of their lives. They are susceptible to being dropped and are frequently in purses and pockets. This can cause internal components to become damaged or loose, which can result in them not responding to your press. This issue can be resolved with a few easy 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 fairly inexpensive, and it's not difficult to find them in large-box stores or hardware stores. You can also find videos on YouTube and in your owner's manual which describe how to replace the battery in your key fob.
It is important to know that certain keyfobs require a specific procedure to enter the required programming mode to change the batteries. In these cases you'll have to consult your owner's manual and/or a reputable auto locksmith to make sure you're following the correct procedure.
Leaving your key fob in extreme cold or hot temperatures can also cause it to stop functioning in particular if the battery has died. In this case you'll have to talk to an automotive locksmith or your dealer for a replacement fob.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding, 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 dismantling the key fob, and then placing an aluminum strip over the worn out contacts.
It is important to know that certain key fobs are difficult to open and can't be opened safely without the use of specialized equipment only accessible at a dealer. If you try to open it with a screwdriver or another tool it's possible to break the circuit board inside and pay an expensive repair bill than you would have needed.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob remains able to unlock your car's doors and start your engine however, it's not functioning as far as it did in the past, the problem may be with the circuit board. The circuit board is an electronic chip that's inside the case. It sends signals to the car telling it that you wish to close the doors, lock the trunk or switch off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob won't be able to send these signals.
You can repair a damaged circuit board by yourself If you have some technical know-how. Remove the battery, then remove the rubber button assembly and the holder from the circuit board. Clean the contacts and plastic frame with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This should eliminate any corrosion that blocks the circuit board from transmitting signals.
Once you've reassembled the key fob, be sure it can enter its programming mode. Go through the owner's manual to find instructions. Many vehicle manufacturers have videos online that demonstrate how to do it. If you're not sure how to do it, you can bring your key fob to a locksmith who specializes in the model of your car.
Certain of the latest key fobs come with an integrated receiver that lets you unlock your trunk, open your doors and switch on your ignition from an extended distance. They are generally more reliable and operate across a wider area. If your key fob doesn't work as well as it did previously, it may have an internal problem that's not working properly or an external antenna that is not working properly.
If key repairs can't get your key fob to function The most likely cause is a dead battery. It's affordable 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. Most dealerships offer this service but you can also find a shop that specializes in the model of your car.
Forgotten Key
It can be a nightmare when you lose the car key fob. You can turn your house upside down by retracing all your steps and looking everywhere. This includes in bags, drawers and under couches. You'll find it eventually. However, the best way to prevent losing your key fob is to taking preventative measures. If you're prone to forgetfulness or even a hint of ADD, make several copies and give these to family and friends so that you won't be shivering and wailing for four hours should you lose your key fob.
The majority of cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your doors. They also in some cases set off an alarm or open the trunk. However, a few of the more sophisticated models come with even more exciting features, like the ability to summon your car with the press of one button. This feature isn't available on all models however if your car is one of those that can do it - the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance and you're a lucky person, then you're fortunate.
If you have an extra car key fob, which has been programmed for your vehicle, you can use it in the event you lose your original. You can also talk to an automotive locksmith to have them create the new key fob which has specifically programmed for your vehicle. Talk to your dealer to find out whether a replacement keyfob might be available for sale at a lower cost.
If you don't have an extra key and you don't have a spare, the only way to start your vehicle is to contact an auto locksmith who will either replace the key fob you have or cut a new one. Dealers can also help with this, but you'll need to bring your vehicle in along with documents to prove ownership. These services are fairly inexpensive in comparison to the cost of replacing a key at your dealer.