Car Key Fob Repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working

Over time, key fobs can experience problems such as loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, however many are fixable at home.

The first step is generally to replace the battery. Most fobs utilize flat watches that are readily available at auto parts stores.

Dead Battery

It can be a real problem when the battery of a key fob goes out. This is especially true when you are far from home. There are ways to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry doesn't work.

The first thing to check is if the buttons on the fob are working. If they do, the problem may lie with the car's locks instead of the fob.

If your keys will not unlock, there may be a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails certain cars come with an app that allows you to unlock doors remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to open the doors using smartphones. However, these apps require a monthly cost.

It is also important to ensure that your key fob does not drain your car's batteries by resting on them. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, particularly when you use its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone.

A key fob that's low on battery may be activated by holding it until you hit the start button. This quick fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers.

You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it's not working it's likely that the battery requires replacement. It's a great idea to keep a spare key fob in your purse or backpack.

Damaged Buttons

If your key fob doesn't have the ability to unlock doors or start your car remotely, it's likely that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob likely contains a circuit board with "contact pads" for each button, and these little pads are coated with an electrically conducting film that wears away over time. This wear could make your fob respond slow or not respond at all.

The good news is that the pad in a car key fob is simple to replace and can be done so using a simple flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it will be difficult to open. You'll need to take it to an auto shop to get the fob repaired.

It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on or exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to the keys, including bending or snapping them.

It could also affect the internals of your fob and could cause a malfunction. This is why it's always an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob inside your pocket or wallet in the event that you break the one you have.

If your key fob's buttons aren't working to the extent they should, first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Key fobs don't need any special electronic device. They are powered by the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at hardware, drug, and online stores.

If the battery is in good condition it's possible that the buttons are just worn down or dirty, and can be cleaned by using a damp cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine if the problem is related to yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other fob is working, it's likely that your key fob needs to be reprogrammed or possibly replaced entirely.

Reprogramming

The hidden world of fobs for car keys repair is more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. Basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are specific to each car. The fobs must be properly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing several keys. It's usually done by the dealer.

Consult your owner's guide for more detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that guarantees only dealerships can design an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. However certain independent shops offer this service as well and you should review reviews and prices prior to selecting the shop.

Some car models will erase all other fobs once they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll need any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is an expensive proposition, especially if you're down to just one working fob. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start your car, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk.

If you decide to attempt to reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a difficult journey. There are numerous guides available online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people with no knowledge of this field and are often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car's key fob by yourself in just a few clicks. This is a false claim.

Most key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pull it out using a tool. You should be able to locate the button cell battery. It's usually an insignificant battery for a watch, which can be purchased at any pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's typically easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first.

Replacement

If your car key repairs near me fob is damaged or fails to function it is crucial to know that there are several options to remedy the problem. A quick fix can be as simple as replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob, however a more extensive repair may be needed. It can also be helpful to keep a spare fob in the event that one is lost or stolen.

Modern key fobs are more expensive and difficult to replace since they have an actual key and electronic. Some "smart fobs" even come with a remote starter. It's therefore important to know that it could take up to an hour to have a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle.

Fobs use a small radio transmitter mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car key repair car keys company, more information,'s receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and begin it from a distance, without putting the key in the ignition or turning a lock.

If your key fob buttons aren't working or responding in a sporadic manner, they may be damaged by water. You can repair the fob if you take it apart and examine for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or buying another one.

You should check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to make sure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper, but you should research brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer is able to utilize.