How to Repair a Car Key Fob
The key fob you have will likely be jostled often. This can cause its buttons to become stuck or broken. You can try giving it a good clean and replacing the battery, if necessary.
Most cars are equipped with a coin-style battery that you can buy at pharmacies and big box stores, as well as home improvement retailers. However, some models require special programming equipment that dealers only have.
Dead Battery
The car key fob can make it easier to start your car and even get it into. What happens if you press the button multiple times, but nothing happens? It's usually due to a dead or dying battery. The battery is easily replaceable. You can locate replacements at auto parts stores, supermarkets and even some home improvement stores.
However there are other features that the key fob has may not work. This could be due to an issue with the mechanism or an electrical issue, or even a deprogramming mistake within the car's receiver. In these instances it's best to contact an expert.
Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers include a key slot made of mechanical inside the fob to be used in case of a dead battery. In the majority of cases, a cover will be put on the handle of the fob in order to cover 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. Make sure to insert the key fob back into the slot after you've started the car.
If you're fortunate enough to have a Ford car with SYNC Connect, there's an additional method of starting the car without the key fob. Most of the SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles come with an alternative "E-blade" within the cupholder. It is a mechanical key that can be used to push the starter button in the event that your key fob fail to start the car. To make the most effective use of this feature, you should ensure that the battery is fully charged. You can also refer to your owner's manual to learn how to do it.
If you're having problems with your car after changing the key fob battery it could be time to call an expert locksmith or your dealer to have the battery replaced or to repair the fob. In some cases, a new battery can be used to program the key fob with your vehicle at the dealership or choose Interstate All Battery Center stores. This will only work as long as the antennas and circuit board are not damaged.
Damaged Buttons
Through the course of time the car key fob's buttons are bound to undergo a lot wear and wear and tear. They are prone to dropping and are often sat in pockets and purses. The jolting could cause internal components to loosen or become damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. A few easy steps can often fix this problem, but occasionally, you might need to take your fob to an expert locksmith.
In addition to an inoperable battery The most frequent reason why a key fob for a car won't work is that it requires new batteries. These tiny coin-shaped batteries are sold at a majority of hardware stores as well as large-box retailers. They are inexpensive. You can also find videos on how to replace the key fob battery on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
It's also important to be aware that certain key fobs require a specific procedure to enter the programming mode required to replace the battery. In these cases you'll need to refer to the owner's manual or an auto locksmith that is reputable to make sure you're following the correct procedure.
If the battery is dead, putting your key fob in extreme temperatures could cause it to stop functioning. If this happens, you will require contacting an automotive locksmith or a dealer for a new fob.
If you are still unable to press the buttons on your key fob, it could be due to the fact that the contacts 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. car key fob repairs can attempt to solve this issue by taking the key fob off and putting a piece metallic tape over the worn-out contacts.
It's important to note that certain key fobs can be extremely tricky to open and can't be opened with confidence without the right equipment that is only available at a dealership. If you try to open it using an screwdriver, or any other tool, you may end up damaging the internal circuit board. This could result in an expensive repair bill.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob is in a position to unlock your car doors and start your engine, but it's not as far as it did in the past, the problem may be with the circuit board. The circuit board is an electronic chip in the case. It transmits signals to your car, telling it to close your doors, lock 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. Take the battery off, then take the rubber button assembly and holder from the circuit board. Clean the contacts and plastic frame using rubbing alcohol and cotton swab. This should eliminate any corrosion that has stopped the circuit board from transmitting signals.
Once you've reassembled your key fob, verify whether it's in programming mode. Usually, this requires turning it on and off several times, so check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Many car manufacturers have videos online that demonstrate how to accomplish this. If you are not confident to complete the task and you are not sure how, you can bring your key fob to a locksmith who specializes in the model of your vehicle.
Some newer key fobs feature a built-in receiver that enables you to unlock your trunk and open the doors, and also turn on your ignition and start the engine from an extended distance. In general, they are more reliable and can work across a wider range. If your latest key fob isn't working as far away as it did in the past it could be due to a faulty antenna or some other issue within the internals.
If you're unable to get your key fob working The most likely cause is an inoperative battery. It's affordable and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons of the fob are damaged, it's going to need to be professionally repaired and reprogrammed. This service is provided by most dealerships, but you can also find a shop that specializes in your particular brand.
Forgotten Key
When you've lost your car keys fob, it could be an absolute nightmare. It's possible to turn your home upside down by retracing your steps and looking everywhere. This includes in drawers, bags and under couches. You'll eventually find it. The best way to avoid losing your key fob is by taking preventative measures. If you have even a little ADD or are just not paying attention, make several copies and distribute them to close friends and family members, so that when you lose yours, you won't have to spend 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. They also in some cases set off an alarm or open the trunk. However, some of the more advanced models have even cooler features, like the ability to call your car at the press of a button. This feature isn't available on all models however if your car is one of the models that can do it - like the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for example and you're a lucky person, then you're fortunate.
If you have an extra car key fob that has been programmed to your vehicle, you could make use of it in the event that you lose your original. You can also get in touch with an automotive locksmith to create an electronic key fob that can be specifically 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 an extra key, the only method to start your car is by calling an auto locksmith to come out and either cut a new key or replace the current key fob with an empty. A dealer can also do this however you'll need to bring your vehicle in and some documents to prove ownership. The good thing is that these services are affordable, particularly when compared with getting a new replacement key from a dealership, which can cost $200-$250.