How to Repair a Car Key Fob
The key fob you have is likely to be tossed around often. This can cause the buttons to get stuck or broken. If necessary, you can give it a thorough cleaning and replace the battery.
Most cars use the coin-style battery available at big box stores as well as home improvement stores and pharmacies. However certain models require special programming equipment that is only available to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob is a small and handy little device that makes getting into your vehicle and starting it much easier than ever. What happens if you push the button few times, and your car isn't responding? The most common reason for this is an unresponsive battery. Fortunately, the battery can be simple to replace. You can get replacements in auto parts stores and supermarkets as well as home improvement stores.
Some of the other features available through the key fob may not function. This could be due to an issue with the mechanical system, an internal electrical issue or even a problem with deprogramming in the car's receiver. In these cases it's recommended to call a professional.
Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers include a mechanical key slot inside the fob for use in the event of an unresponsive battery. In the majority of instances, a cover is put on the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. The physical key can be put into the slot which will allow you to open your door and start your vehicle. Make sure to insert the key fob after you start your vehicle!
If you own a Ford with SYNC Connect, you are able to start the car by using the key fob. The majority of SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have an alternative "E-blade" inside the cupholder. This key is used to press the starter button in the event that your key fob fails to start the vehicle. For the best use of this feature, ensure that the battery is fully charged. You can also refer to your owner's manual for instructions on the best way to use it.
If your car continues to have problems after replacing the battery on your key fob, you may need to speak with an expert locksmith or your dealer to get the battery or fob repaired. In some cases it is possible to get a new battery that can be used to program the key fob in your vehicle at the dealership, or you can choose Interstate All Battery Center stores. However, this can only be done in the event that the circuit board and antennas are not damaged.
Damaged car key repair near me on your car key fob are bound to suffer a lot of wear and tear over the course of their lives. They're susceptible to droppings, and they spend a lot of time being tossed around in purses and pockets. This jolting can cause the internal components to loosen or become damaged, resulting in them not responding when you press them. A few easy steps can often resolve this issue, however occasionally, you might need to take your fob to a professional locksmith.
The most common reason for a car keyfob not working is that the batteries are dead. These little coin-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive, and it's not difficult to find them in large-box stores or hardware stores. You can also find videos that explain how to replace the battery for your key fob on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
It's also important to know that some key fobs require a particular procedure to enter the programming mode required for changing the battery. In such cases, you'll need to consult the owner's manual as well as an auto locksmith that is reputable to ensure that you're following the correct procedure.
The fob you have left in extreme hot or cold temperatures can also cause it to stop working in particular when the battery has failed. If this happens, you'll have to call an automotive locksmith or a dealer to request a replacement fob.
If you still can't press the buttons on your key fob, it may be due to the contacts being 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 by taking the key fob off and putting a piece metallic tape over the worn out contacts.
It's important to remember that certain key fobs can be difficult to open and can't be opened safely without specialized equipment that is only accessible at a dealer. If you attempt to open it with a screwdriver or another tool it's likely that you'll damage the circuit board inside, and pay an expensive repair bill than you might have otherwise required.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob is still capable of unlocking the doors of your car and even start your engine but it's not working as well as it did previously, the problem may be with the circuit board. The circuit board is an electronic chip that's inside the case. It transmits signals to the car that tell it if you want to close the doors, lock the trunk, or turn off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your key fob won't be able to transmit these signals.
If you are skilled in the field you can repair damaged circuit boards yourself. Begin by removing the battery and taking the rubber button and holder assembly from the circuit board. Clean the contacts and plastic frame using rubbing alcohol and cotton swab. This should eliminate any rust that blocks the circuit board from transmitting signals.
After you've assembled your key fob, check that it is in programming mode. Check your owner's guide for instructions. Many car manufacturers have videos online that demonstrate how to accomplish this. If you're not sure to do this then you can take your key fob into a locksmith who specializes in the model of your vehicle.
Some newer key fobs feature a built-in receiver that allows you to unlock your trunk and open the doors, as well as turn on the ignition and start your engine from an extended distance. They are generally more reliable and work over a wider range. If company website does not work as well as it did in the past it could be due to an internal issue that isn't working or an antenna that isn't functioning properly.
If you can't get your key fob to work, the most likely culprit is an inoperative battery. It's cheap and easy to replace. But if the fob's buttons or circuit board are damaged, you'll need be able to have it repaired professionally and reprogrammed. The majority of dealerships offer this service, but you can also locate a shop that is specialized in the brand of your car.
Forgotten Key
When you've lost your car keys fob, it's a nightmare. You can turn your home upside down, retracing your steps and searching everywhere, including in drawers, bags or under couches, and even your cat's bed. Then, you'll discover it. The best way to prevent losing your key fob is to taking precautions. If you have even a little ADD or are just not paying attention, make several copies and hand them out to your close family and friends members, so that when you lose yours, you don't spend 4 hours sweating and cursing yourself for the rest of your life.
Many cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock doors, and in some cases, activate the alarm system or open the trunk. Some of the more advanced models offer even cooler features, such as the ability to call your car's location by pressing a button. This feature isn't available on all models however if your vehicle is one of the models that can do it - like the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for example - then you're in luck.
The good news is that if you have a spare key fob programmed to your car, then you can use it to start your vehicle in the event you lose the original. You can also talk to an automotive locksmith to have them create a new key fob that's was programmed to your specific vehicle. Contact your dealer to find out if a replacement keyfob is available at a lower price.
If you don't have an extra alternative to start your vehicle is to contact an auto locksmith who will replace the key fob you have or make an entirely new one. A dealer can also do this however, you'll need bring your vehicle in and some proof of ownership papers. These services are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of a replacement key at your dealer.