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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, including an inability to function. While some issues may require professional attention, many can be resolved at home. Change the battery is often the first step. Most fobs are powered by flat watches-style batteries that is easily available at auto parts or hardware stores. Dead Battery If a key fob battery dies, it can be a major hassle particularly if you're away from home. There are solutions to get your vehicle back on the road in case your keyless entry system isn't working. One of the first things to examine is to determine if the key fob's buttons still function. If they do, then the problem may lie with the car's locks instead of the fob. If your keys don't work, look for a mechanical key slot located in your door handle trim or somewhere else on the vehicle (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work certain cars come with an app that can open doors remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock the doors using smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription. It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle's battery by resting on it. A dead key fob can drain your battery fast, especially if it is used to control the TV or phone while you are watching. The key fob should be held right up to your car's start button could cause an ignition key fob with a low battery. This simple fix could save you from having to visit your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers. You can also determine whether your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, the fob battery probably needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in a purse or backpack. Damaged Buttons It's possible that the key fob is damaged and has a button. The key fob may contain a circuit board with “contact pads” for each button, and these tiny pads are coated with an electrically conducting film which wears down over time. This wear can cause your device to respond slower or not at all. The good news is that the pad in the car key fob is easy to replace, and is done with the help of an easy flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob has been badly damaged or smashed in any way, it could be more difficult to open the case, and you'll have to take the fob into an auto repair shop for repairs. It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on or exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, such as breaking and snapping keys. It can also cause internal damage to the fob that could cause malfunction. It's a good idea that's why you should always carry a spare fob in your wallet or pocket in case the one you're using fails. Make sure the battery is charged first to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't responding like they should. Be aware that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device; most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries that are used in hearing aids and watches and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and online. If the battery is functioning properly it is possible that the buttons are worn or dirty. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If remote key fob repair near me don't work, you could try another 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 reprogrammed or replaced. Reprogramming The secret world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths would suggest. The basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs have to be programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Unfortunately, reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it has to be done by the dealer. The process of reprogramming a 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, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that makes sure only the dealership can create a new fob and re-sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop. Certain models of cars erase other fobs when they are changed. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This can be expensive particularly if your fob isn't working anymore. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start your vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup that can open the doors and trunk. Be prepared for a difficult experience if you decide to reprogram your fob yourself. You'll be disappointed by the countless online guides that promise success. A lot of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your own car key fob in just a few clicks, which is extremely misleading. Most key fobs are held by a plastic clip that is easy to remove however, the battery is within the circuit board, and you'll have to carefully pry it out with a tool. You should be able to find the button battery. It's typically a small battery for a watch that you can purchase at most pharmacies or home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically an easy process, but it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire device. Replacement There are a variety of ways to fix a damaged or malfunctioning car key fob. An easy fix could be as easy as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, however a more extensive repair may be needed. A spare fob is useful in the event one is lost or taken. Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace because they contain a physical key along with electronics. Some “smart” fobs even have a built-in remote starter. Therefore, it's important to know that it could take up to an hour to get an alternative key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle. Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on the circuit board. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, and it transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance without the need to insert the ignition key in. If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or operate intermittently it could indicate that they've been damaged by water or other causes. You can repair the fob if you take it apart and check for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't fix the issue, try reprogramming the fob, or getting another one. It is best to check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper but you should look into the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them yourself. While some fobs can be replaced by a reputable locksmith, others require specialized programming equipment that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.