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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 have issues with time, like an inability to function. Some issues may need professional attention, but most can be fixed at home. key fob repairs is generally to change the battery. Most fobs utilize batteries with a flat design which are easily found in hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery It can be a real problem when a key fob's battery dies. This is particularly true when you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road when your vehicle's 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 do not, the problem could be in the car's locks. If your keys will not unlock, there may be an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, certain cars come with an application that lets you unlock it remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile App, myMazda apps, for instance, allow owners to unlock their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly fee. It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining your vehicle's battery by being plugged into it. A dead fob will drain your battery quickly particularly if it's used to control the TV or phone while you are watching. A key fob that's just low on battery may be activated by bringing it up to the start button. It's a simple fix that will save you going to the dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center locations. You can also find out whether your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, it could be necessary to replace the fob battery. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse. Damaged Buttons If your key fob doesn't have the ability to open doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons is damaged. The key fob may contain a circuit board with “contact pads” for each button. These little pads are coated with an electricity conducting film which wears down over time. This wear can cause your fob to respond more slowly, or even not at all. The good news is that the contact pad inside a car key fob can be replaced easily, and is done by using a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed, it will be difficult to open. You'll have to take it to an auto repair shop to repair the fob. It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage, such as breaking and snapping keys. This can also affect the internals of your fob, which could lead to an issue. This is why it's recommended to keep an extra key fob in your purse or pocket in case you accidentally break the one you have. If the buttons on your key fob aren't working to the extent they should, you should first verify that the battery is in good condition. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device; most of them run on the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches that are readily available at drug stores, hardware stores, and online. If the battery is working, it's likely that the buttons are just dirty or worn out and can be cleaned using a moist cloth to wipe them clean. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine if the issue is with yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob functions, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced. Reprogramming The world of car keys fobs is much more complex than many myths suggest. The basic fobs function on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs need to be programmed correctly for them to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as easy as pressing several keys. It's usually handled by the dealer. The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of your vehicle It is therefore essential to refer to the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that ensures only the dealership can create an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. However some independent shops provide this service too, so be sure to check reviews and prices before selecting the right shop. Some car models will erase all other fobs once they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll have to have any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be expensive particularly if your fob isn't working anymore. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start the vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup key that can open the trunk and doors. If you decide to attempt to reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a gruelling journey. There are countless guides on the internet that promise success, but you'll likely be disappointed. Many 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 only a few clicks, which can be very confusing. Most key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is within the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. Once you get inside, you should be able to locate the button cell battery which is usually a small watch battery that can be purchased at a variety of pharmacies or home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always worthwhile to try this first before replacing the entire unit. Replacement There are many ways to fix a damaged or malfunctioning car key fob. key repair near me 's as simple as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more thorough repair may be needed. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in case one is lost or stolen. The majority of modern key fobs have the physical key in addition to the electronics which makes them more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some “smart fobs” even include remote starters. It's important to understand that it could take an hour or more to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle. Fobs utilize a small radio transmitter on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. When you press a button, the transmitter sends an RF signal unique to the car receiver. The receiver receives the signal and verifies it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance, without the need to put the key in the ignition. If your key fob buttons aren't working or responding in a sporadic manner, they may be damaged by water. It is possible to repair the fob by taking it apart and look for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, try reprogramming it or purchasing a new fob. Before you purchase a replacement fob on the internet, consult a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are many 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 an experienced locksmith, but other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer can use.