How to Repair a Car Key Fob
You key fob is likely to be jostled frequently. This could cause the buttons to get stuck or broken. If it is necessary, give it a thorough cleaning and replace the battery.
Most cars are powered by the coin-style battery that you can buy at big box stores or home improvement stores as well as pharmacies. Certain models require programming equipment that is only available to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a tiny and useful device that makes getting into your vehicle and launching it much easier than ever. What happens when you press the button several times and nothing happens? It's usually due to a dead or dying battery. The battery can be easily replaced. You can get replacements in supermarkets and auto parts stores and also at some home improvement stores.
A few of the other features available through the key fob might not function. This could be due to an issue with the mechanism, an electrical problem or even a mishap with the deprogramming in your car's receiver. In these situations it's recommended to contact a professional.
The majority of manufacturers include a mechanical slot in the fob to be used in the event of a dead cell. In most cases, a cover is attached to the handle of the fob in order to cover the key slot. The key's physical form can be placed into the slot which will allow you to unlock your door and start your car. Just don't forget to re-insert the key fob when you have started the car!
If you have a Ford equipped with SYNC Connect, you are able to start the car using the key fob. Most SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have an additional "E-blade" inside the cupholder. This is a mechanical key that can be used to push the starter button in the event that your key fob fail to start the vehicle. To make remote key repair of this feature, ensure that the battery is charged. You can also refer to the owner's manual for instructions on how to use it.
If you're still having issues with your car after replacing the key fob battery it could be time to call an expert locksmith or your dealer to get the battery replaced or the fob repaired. In some cases, a new battery can be used to program the key fob in your car at the dealership or choose Interstate All Battery Center stores. This is only possible as long as the circuit board and antennas aren't damaged.
Damaged Buttons
In the course of time the car key fob's buttons are likely to see many wear and wear and tear. They are prone to dropping and are often sat in purses and pockets. This can cause internal components to become damaged or loose, which will cause them to not respond to your pressing. This problem can be fixed by a few simple steps, however you may require the assistance of a locksmith.
Aside from batteries that are dead, the most common reason why a key fob for a car will not work is because it needs new batteries. These little coin-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive and are easy to find them in hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also look up videos on YouTube and in the owner's manual of your device that explain how to replace the battery on your key fob.
It's also important to know that some key fobs require a particular procedure to enter the programming mode needed to replace the battery. In such cases you'll need to refer to your owner's manual and/or an auto locksmith that is reputable to ensure that you're following the correct procedure.
If you leave your key fob in extreme hot or cold temperatures can cause it to stop working, especially if the battery has died. If this happens, you'll have to call an automotive locksmith or dealer to request a replacement fob.
If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding it could be because the contacts inside are worn out. These contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity-conducting film, but they can start to wear out over time due to repeated use. You can fix this problem by dismantling the key fob and putting an aluminum strip over the contacts that are worn out.
It's important to remember that some key fobs can be extremely tricky to open and cannot be opened safely without specialized equipment that is only accessible at a dealer. If you try to open it with an instrument like a screwdriver or other it's possible to damage the circuit board inside and pay an expense for repairs that is higher than you required.
Circuit Board Issues
The circuit board may be the reason for your key fob's not working as well as it used as well. The circuit board is an electronic chip that's inside the case. It sends signals to the car telling it that you wish to lock the doors, open the trunk, or turn off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your key fob won't be able transmit these signals.
If you're a tech expert you can repair damaged circuit boards yourself. Begin by removing the battery and separating the holder and rubber button assembly from the circuit board. Clean the contacts and plastic frame using rubbing alcohol and cotton swab. This should eliminate any corrosion that blocks the circuit board from transmitting signals.
After you've assembled the key fob, be sure it can enter its programming mode. Usually, this requires turning it on and off several times, so check your owner's manual to find specific instructions. Many car manufacturers have online videos that show how to accomplish this. If you're not confident enough to do it yourself, you can send your key fob to a locksmith that is specialized in the model of your vehicle.
Some of the more modern key fobs have a receiver built in that lets you unlock your trunk, open your doors and switch on your ignition from some distance. They are generally more reliable and work across a wider area. If your latest key fob isn't working as far away as it did previously, it could have a faulty antenna or some other internal problem.
If you can't get your key fob working the most likely reason is the battery is dead. It's affordable and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons on the fob are damaged, they will need to be professionally repaired and reset. Most dealerships will provide this service however, you can find a shop that specializes in the brand of your car.
Forgotten Key
When you've lost your car key fob, it can be an absolute nightmare. You could turn your home upside down and retrace your steps, and looking everywhere including in bags, drawers or under couches, and even your cat's bed. Then, you'll discover it. Preventative measures are the best method to avoid losing your key fob. If you've got even a touch of minor ADD or are just forgetful, make several copies and distribute them to close friends and family members, so that when you lose yours you don't spend four hours sweating and blaming yourself for the rest of your life.
Many cars have key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock doors, and in some instances activate the alarm system or open the trunk. However, some of the more advanced models have more advanced features, such as the capability to summon your car at the touch of a button. This feature is not available on all models however if your vehicle is one of the models that can do it - the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance and you're a lucky person, then you're in good hands.
The good news is that if you have a spare key fob that's programmed to your vehicle, then you can use it to start your vehicle in the event that you lose the original. You can also reach out to an automotive locksmith to have them create the new key fob which has specifically programmed for your vehicle. Talk to your dealer to see whether a replacement keyfob might be available at a lower price.
If you don't have a spare key, the only method to get your car started is by calling an auto locksmith to come out and either make a new key or replace the current key fob with blank. Dealers can also do this, but you'll need to bring your vehicle in along with documents to prove ownership. remote key repair are fairly inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of a replacement key at your dealership.