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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 may experience issues over time, such as a loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, but many can be resolved at home. The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs use flat watches which are easily found in hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery If the battery for a key fob is dead, it could be a major hassle, especially if you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road if your car's keyless entry isn't working. One of the first things to check is whether the buttons on your key fob work. If they do, the problem may lie with your car's locks instead of the fob. If your keys will not unlock, you may find an electronic slot in the trim around the door handles or in other places on your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work 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 their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps require a monthly fee. Also, make sure that your key fob doesn't drain the batteries of your car by sitting on them. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, particularly when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or speaking on the phone. Holding the key fob to the car's start button can sometimes start a key fob with an empty battery. This simple fix can save you from a trip to your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers. You can also determine whether your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the battery in your fob. It's a great idea to keep a spare key fob in your bag or purse. Damaged Buttons It's possible that your key fob is damaged and has a button. Your key fob is equipped with an electronic circuit that has “contact pads” that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears away over time. This wear could make your fob respond less or not at all. The contact pad on car keys can be easily replaced using a flat-head screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is severely smashed or harmed in any way, it could be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop for repairs. It's not unusual for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on or exposed to water. car key repairs near me can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them. This could also cause internal damage to the fob that could lead to malfunction. It is a good idea, so, always keep an additional fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you're currently using fails. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding as they should, you should first check to make sure the battery is in good working condition. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't any special type of electronic device – they're typically powered by the same two-dollar batteries that are used in watches and hearing aids and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and on the internet. If the battery is functioning properly the buttons could be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons don't work, try an alternative car key fob. This will help determine whether the issue is yours or a specific model. If the other key fob is working it is possible that yours needs to be reset or replaced. Reprogramming The hidden world of car key fobs is more complicated than the myths would suggest. Basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are specific to each car. The fobs have to be properly programmed in order to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing several keys. It's usually handled by the dealer. The procedure for reprogramming the fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of your car It is therefore essential to refer to the owner's manual for step-bystep instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealers are capable of creating a brand new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices prior to selecting a shop. Certain models of cars will erase other fobs once they've been changed, so you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This can be expensive especially if the fob is no longer working. Even in the event that the mechanical key will not work to start your vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk. Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you opt to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are countless guides online that promise to work but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides are written by people with no prior experience in this field and are often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which is extremely false. The battery is typically secured with a plastic clip, which can be removed easily. However the circuit board is home to the battery, and you'll need to pry the battery out using an instrument. Once you've got inside, you should be able to find the button cell battery, which is usually a small watch battery that can be purchased in most pharmacies or home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally an easy process, but it's always a good idea to test this first before replacing the entire device. Replacement There are many methods to fix a broken or damaged car key fob. An easy fix could be as simple as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more thorough repair might be required. A spare fob can be helpful in the event that one is lost or taken. Most modern key fobs include a small physical key, in addition to the electronic component, making them both pricier and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some “smart fobs” even include remote starters. It's important to be aware that it can take an hour or more to cut and program the replacement fob to your vehicle. Fobs use a small radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the car and start it from a distance, without inserting the key into the ignition or turning the lock. If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or work sporadically it could mean that they have been damaged by water or other factors. You can fix the fob if you take it apart and look for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't solve the problem, try reprogramming it or purchasing an entirely new fob. It is recommended to consult an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob online to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs less expensive, but it's crucial to research the brands and read reviews before trying to program them. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable, but other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer is able to utilize.