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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 experience problems over time, such as the loss of functionality. While some issues might require expert attention, most are fixable at home. The first step is usually to change the battery. The majority of fobs have flat watch-style batteries which are easily found at hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery If the battery for a key fob fails, it can be a major inconvenience especially if you're far from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road even when your car's keyless entry isn't working. The first thing to test is if the buttons on the key fob are working. If they do not, the problem could be with the locks on your car. If your keys will not unlock, you might find an electronic slot in the trim around your door handles or in other places in your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this fails there are some cars that have an app that allows you to unlock doors remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile Application and myMazda apps, for instance let owners unlock their doors with their smartphones. These apps do charge monthly subscription fees. Also, you should ensure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by sitting on it. A dead key fob can drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control your phone or TV while you are watching. A key fob that's low on battery can sometimes be started by holding it right up to the start button. It's a simple solution that could save you a trip to the dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center locations. You can also find out whether your key fob actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with the push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the battery in your fob. It's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in your purse or backpack. Damaged Buttons If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons is damaged. Your key fob is likely to have a circuit board with “contact pads” for each button, and these tiny pads are coated with a conductor of electricity that wears away over time. This wear could make your fob respond slower or not at all. The good news is that the pad in a car key fob is easy to replace, and can be done so by using an easy flathead screwdriver. However, if the key fob is badly smashed or harmed in any way, it might be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto repair shop for repairs. It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on or exposed to water. These incidents can cause physical damage, such as breaking the keys and snapping them. It could also alter the internals of the fob and could cause malfunction. It's a good idea, therefore, to always carry an extra fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you're using fails. Examine the battery first to determine If your key fob's buttons are not responding like they should. Key fobs do not require a special type of electronic device. They utilize the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at drug, hardware, and online stores. If the battery is in good condition it's possible that the buttons are just dirty or worn out, and can be cleaned by using a damp cloth to wipe them clean. If the buttons don't work, you can test an alternative car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob is working, then yours might need to be reprogrammed or replaced. Reprogramming The hidden world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs work on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be programmed correctly to be able to open and start the car. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as easy as pressing a few buttons, and with only a few exceptions it needs to be handled by a dealer. The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of your vehicle, so it's important to refer to the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Certain manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that only dealerships are capable of creating a brand new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service too so make sure to review reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop. Certain models of cars erase all other fobs once they are reprogrammed. This means that you'll have to have additional fobs programmed by professionals. This can be costly particularly if your fob has stopped working. It's always wise to have at minimum a spare mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk, even if it won't start the car. Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you opt to reprogram your fob by yourself. You'll be disappointed by the countless online guides that claim to be successful. Many of these guides are written by people with no experience in this area and often are founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which is extremely false. The battery is typically held in place by an elastic clip that can be easily removed. However the circuit board is home to the battery, and you'll need to pry the battery out using a tool. Once you've got inside, you should be able locate the button cell battery which is typically a small watch battery that can be found at a variety of pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's usually easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, you can try replacing the button cell first. Replacement There are many ways to fix a damaged or malfunctioning car key fob. It may be possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However, a more extensive repair might be required. It is also helpful to have a spare key fob in the event that one is lost or stolen. Modern key fobs are more expensive and difficult to replace due to the fact that they have the physical key and electronic. Some “smart fobs” even include a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to have a replacement key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle. Fobs communicate with the car receiver using a small radio transmitter on a circuitboard. By pressing how to repair car key fob , the transmitter transmits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the car from a distance, without having to put the ignition key in. If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or operate intermittently, it can indicate that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and examine for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't resolve the issue, try reprogramming the fob, or getting another one. It is recommended to consult a local auto dealer or a locksmith before purchasing a replacement keyfob online to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper, but you should research reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be programmed by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer can use.