remote car key repair - How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working
Over time, key fobs may have issues, such as a malfunction. Certain issues may require professional attention, but most are fixable at home.
Change the battery is often the first step. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style batteries, which can be easily found at auto parts or hardware stores.
Dead Battery
If a key fob battery is dead, it could be a huge inconvenience, especially if you're away from home. There are solutions to get your vehicle back on the road if your keyless entry system isn't working.
One of the first things to be sure of is whether the buttons on the key fob function. If they aren't it could be a problem with the locks on your car.
If your keys don't work try looking for a key slot with a mechanical lock located in the trim of your door handle or in another location on the vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails certain cars come with an app that can unlock doors remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for instance let owners unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps do charge monthly subscription fees.
It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by being plugged into it. remote car key repair can quickly drain your battery, particularly when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or speaking on the phone.
Holding the key fob up to your car's start button may cause an ignition key fob with an empty battery. It's a quick fix that can save you a trip to the dealer or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations.
You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the fob battery. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse.
Damaged Buttons
If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons are damaged. Your key fob is equipped with an electronic circuit that has "contact pads" that are covered with an electrically conductor film. This film wears off over time. This wear can cause your fob to react slower, or not to respond at all.
The contact pad on car keys can be easily replaced with an flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is badly smashed or harmed in any way, it may be more difficult to open the case, and you'll be required to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired.
It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to the keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them.
This can also affect the internals of the fob which could result in malfunction. It's a good idea, that's why you should always carry an extra fob in your wallet or pocket in case the one you currently have breaks.
If your key fob's buttons aren't responding in the way they should, first make sure the battery is in good working condition. Key fobs don't require a special type of electronic device. They are powered by the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at hardware, drug, and online stores.
If the battery is good it is possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, test a different key fob to determine if the issue is with yours, or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other fob is working it's likely that your key fob has to be reprogrammed or perhaps replaced entirely.
Reprogramming
The world of car key fobs is much more intricate than what some myths suggest. The basic fobs operate on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs must be properly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as simple as pressing a few keys. It's usually handled by the dealer.
Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealerships are capable of creating a new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. However some independent shops provide this service as well so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting a shop.
Certain car models erase all other fobs once they're changed. This means that you'll need to have any additional fobs programmed by professionals. This can be expensive particularly if your fob is no longer working. It's always wise to have at least one spare mechanical key you can use to unlock the trunk and doors even if it doesn't start the car.
If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a difficult journey. You'll be disappointed with the numerous guides on the internet that claim to be successful. Many of these guides were written by people with no prior experience in this field, and they're often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even state that you can program your car key fob in only a few clicks, which is very confusing.
The battery is typically held in place with clips made of plastic, which can be easily removed. However the circuit board is home to the battery, and you'll need to pry the battery out using the aid of a tool. You should be able to find the button cell battery. It's typically a small battery for a watch that can be purchased at any pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's generally easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the entire unit, you can try replacing the button cell first.
Replacement
If a car key fob has been damaged or has stopped working it is important to know there are several options to fix the issue. It could be possible to resolve the issue quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob is useful in the event that one is lost or stolen.
Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace since they have a physical key along with electronic. Some "smart fobs" even come with remote starters. It's therefore important to understand that it can take up to an hour for an alternative key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle.
Fobs communicate with the car's receiver by using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuitboard. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, which transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares 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 your key fob are not responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You may be able to fix the fob by removing it and looking for any damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can try reprogramming your fob or buying another one.
Before purchasing a replacement key fob online, contact a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. The fobs from the aftermarket can be less expensive however, you must look into the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them yourself. Some fobs can be changed by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer is able to utilize.