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Car Key Fob Repair – How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working Key fobs can experience problems over time, including a loss of functionality. Some issues may need professional attention, but many are fixable at home. The first step is usually to replace the battery. Most fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which are easily found in hardware or auto parts stores. Dead Battery If the battery for a key fob is dead, it could be a major hassle particularly if you're away from home. There are solutions to get your car back on the road in case your keyless entry system isn't working. One of the first things to check is to determine if the buttons on the key fob work. If they do, the issue could be in the locks of your car instead of the fob. If your keys don't work try looking for a mechanical key slot hidden in your door handle trim or in another location on the car (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work, some cars have an app that allows you to unlock doors remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app permit owners to open their doors using their smartphones. These apps charge a monthly subscription fee. It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle's battery by resting on it. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, especially when you use its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone. Holding broken car key repair near me up to your car's start button may cause the key fob that has a low battery. It's a simple fix that can save you a trip to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations. If your key fob doesn't work try testing it in a vehicle that has a push-button starter. If it doesn't, it could be necessary to replace the battery on your fob. It's a good idea keep a spare key fob in your purse or backpack. Damaged Buttons If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons are damaged. Your key fob is likely to have circuit boards with “contact pads” for each button. These little pads are coated with an electrically conducting film that wears away over time. This wear could cause your fob to react slower, or not respond at all. The pad that contacts a car keyfob can be easily replaced using the flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is severely smashed or harmed in any way, it could be more difficult to open the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto shop for repair. It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on, or exposed to water. All of these events can result in physical damage, like breaking and snapping keys. It could also affect the internals of the fob and could cause an issue. This is why it's always recommended to keep an extra key fob in your pocket or wallet in the event that you break the one you have. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding to the extent they should, you should first verify that the battery is in good condition. Key fobs don't need a special type of electronic device. They utilize the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold in drug, hardware and online stores. If the battery is good, the buttons may be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, you can test a different car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or an specific model. If the other key fob is working it is possible that yours needs to be reprogrammed or replaced. Reprogramming The hidden world of car key fobs is more complex than some myths would suggest. Basic fobs function on radio frequency signals specific to each car. The fobs have to be properly programmed in order to be able to open and start the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons and with very few exceptions it needs to be handled by the dealer. Refer to the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have proprietary technology that only dealers are able to create a new key fob and then resync it to your vehicle. However, some independent shops can offer this service as well so make sure to check reviews and prices before choosing the right shop. Certain car models erase other fobs when they're reprogrammed. This means you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by an expert. This is an expensive proposition particularly if you're just one functional fob. It's always recommended to have at minimum a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it's not able to start the car. If you decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a frustrating journey. There are countless guides online that promise to work, but you'll likely be disappointed. A lot of these guides were written by people with no prior experience in this field, and they're often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car key fob by yourself in just a few clicks. This is false. The majority of key fobs are secured by a plastic clip that is easy to remove but the battery is inside the circuit board, so you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. Once you've got inside, you should be able to locate the button cell battery which is typically a tiny watch battery that can be purchased at a variety of pharmacies or at home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally an easy process, but it's always worth trying first before replacing the entire unit. Replacement If a car key fob has been damaged or has stopped working it is important to know there are a few ways to remedy the problem. It's as simple as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, however a more extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob can be helpful in the event that one is lost or stolen. Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace since they have a physical key as well as the electronics. Certain “smart” fobs even have a built-in remote starter. It's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle. Fobs communicate with the car receiver by using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on the circuit board. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, and it transmits an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the vehicle from a distance without the need to insert the ignition key in. If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or function intermittently it could indicate that they've been damaged by water or other factors. It is possible to fix the fob by taking it apart and looking for any damaged or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, try reprogramming the fob, or buying another one. Before purchasing a replacement key fob online, seek out an expert locksmith or your local dealer to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's important to research the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them. Certain fobs can be programmed by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer is able to utilize.