How to Repair a Car Key Fob
You key fob is likely to be jostled frequently. This can cause its buttons to get stuck or break. If you need to, give it a thorough cleaning and replace the battery.
Most cars are equipped with a coin-style battery that you can buy at pharmacies or big box stores as well as home improvement stores. However certain models require special programming equipment that only dealers have.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a compact and convenient device that makes getting into your vehicle and starting it more simple than ever. What happens if you press the button several times, but nothing happens? It's usually due to a dead or dying battery. Fortunately, the battery can be easy to replace. You can find replacements in auto parts stores, supermarkets and even some home improvement stores.
However, some of the other features that the key fob provides might not function. remote key repair could be due to a mechanical issue or electrical issue or even a programming error within the car's receiver. In these cases, you should probably consult an expert.
Most manufacturers include a mechanical slot in the fob that can be used in case of dead cells. In the majority of cases, a cover is put on the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. You can insert your physical key into the slot to open your doors and start your vehicle. Don't forget to put the key fob back into the slot once you have started your vehicle.
If you happen to own a Ford vehicle that is equipped with SYNC Connect, there's an additional method of starting the car without using the key fob. The cupholder in the majority of Fords equipped with SYNC Connect has a backup "E blade". It is a mechanical key that can be used to push the starter button, should your key fob fails to start the vehicle. To make the most effective use of this feature, you should ensure that the battery is fully charged. You can also consult the owner's manual to find out how to use it.
If you're still having issues with your car after replacing the battery in your key fob it could be the right time to contact an expert locksmith or your dealer to get the battery replaced or the fob repaired. In some cases, the key fob can be programmed to your vehicle by replacing the battery at the dealership or at selected Interstate All Battery Center locations. This will only work so long as the antennas and circuit board are not damaged.
Damaged Buttons
The buttons on your car key fob are likely to experience a lot of wear and tear over the course of their lives. They're prone to drops and also spend a lot of time being tossed around in pockets and purses. The jolting may cause internal components to become loose or damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. A few easy steps can fix this problem, but occasionally, you might require taking your fob to a professional locksmith.
The most common reason for a car keyfob to stop working is that the batteries are dead. These little coins-shaped batteries are fairly inexpensive and are easy to find them at hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also look up videos on YouTube and in your owner's manual that provide instructions on how to replace the battery in your key fob.
It is important to know that some keyfobs need a specific procedure to enter the required programming mode to replace the batteries. In these cases, you will need to look up the owner's manual and/or an auto locksmith to make sure that you follow the correct procedure.
If the battery is dead, leaving your key fob exposed to extreme temperatures can cause it to cease functioning. In this case, you'll need to consult an automotive locksmith or your dealer to obtain 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 disassembling the key fob and putting a piece of metallic tape over the worn-out contacts.
It is important to know that some key fobs are extremely difficult to open. They are only opened with specialized equipment that can be purchased from 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 lead to a much more expensive repair cost.
Circuit Board Issues
The circuit board may be the cause of your key fob not functioning as well as it did too. The circuit board is a small electronic chip inside the case that sends signals to your car, telling it to close your doors, lock the trunk and even turn off your ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your keyfob will not be able to send these signals.
If you have the technical know-how, you can repair damaged circuit boards yourself. Start by removing the battery and separate the holder and rubber button assembly from the circuit board. Clean the plastic frame and contacts using rubbing alcohol and cotton swab. This should remove any corrosion that blocks the circuit board from transmitting signals.
After you've assembled your key fob, verify that it is in programming mode. Go through the owner's manual to find instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers also have videos online that show you how to accomplish this. If key fob repairs 're not sure to do it and you are not sure how, you can bring your key fob to a locksmith who specializes in the model of your car.
Some of the newer key fobs come with an integrated receiver that lets you open your trunk, lock your doors and turn on your ignition from a distance. They're generally more reliable and work across a wider area. If your key fob doesn't perform as well as it did in the past, it may have a faulty internal problem or a faulty external antenna.
The most likely cause for a key fob not working is an insufficient or dead battery. It's inexpensive and easy to change. But if the fob's buttons or circuit board is damaged, you'll have to have it professionally repaired and changed to a new program. Many dealerships will provide this service, but you can also locate a shop that is specialized in the model of your car.
Forgotten Key
It can be an absolute nightmare if you lose your car keys. You can turn your home upside down and retrace your steps and searching all over, including in drawers, bags and under couches, and even under your cat's bed. In the end, you'll find it. It is best to take preventative measures as a way to prevent losing your key fob. If you're prone to forgetfulness or have a slight touch of ADD, make multiple copies and hand them out to family and acquaintances so that you don't be sweating and cursing for four hours if you lose your key fob.
Many cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock doors, and in certain cases, activate the alarm system or open the trunk. However, some of the more advanced models have even cooler features, like the ability to summon your car with the push of a button. This feature isn't available on all models however if your vehicle is one of those that can do it - like the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance - then you're fortunate.
The good news is that if have an extra key fob that's programmed to your car, then you can use it to start your car in the event you lose the original. You can also contact an automotive locksmith to create a key fob that is programmed for your vehicle. Talk to your dealer to see whether a replacement keyfob might be available for sale at a lower cost.
If you don't have a spare, the only way to start your vehicle is to contact an auto locksmith to replace your existing key fob or make an entirely new one. Dealers can also help with this however, you'll need bring your vehicle in and provide evidence of ownership documents. The good thing is that these services are affordable, particularly when compared with buying a new key from your dealer that could cost anywhere from $200 to $250.