How to Repair a Car Key Fob
The key fob is jostled around a lot, and its buttons can be damaged or stuck. If necessary, you can give it a thorough cleaning and replace the battery.
Most cars are powered by batteries that are coin-style available at big box stores, home improvement retailers and pharmacies. However certain models require specialized programming equipment that is only available to dealers.
Dead Battery
The car key fob can make it easier to start your vehicle, and then get it started. But what happens if you push the button couple of times and your car doesn't respond? This usually happens due to an inactive or dying battery. The battery is easily replaceable. You can find replacements at auto parts stores, supermarkets and even some home improvement centers.
However certain other features that the key fob offers may not work. It could be due to an issue with the mechanical system or an electrical problem inside the vehicle or even a problem with deprogramming in the receiver of your car. In these cases it is recommended to consult a professional.
Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers include a mechanical key slot inside the fob for use in the event of an inoperative battery. In the majority of cases, the key slot is concealed behind a cover on the fob handle. The physical key can be placed into the slot which will allow you to open your door and start your vehicle. Be sure to re-insert the key fob after you start the car!
If you have a Ford equipped with SYNC Connect, you are able to start the car with the key fob. Most of the SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles come with an additional "E-blade" within the cupholder. This key is used to press the starter button if your key fob isn't able to start the vehicle. To get the most out of this feature, ensure that the battery in your car is charged and review the owner's manual in order to find out what the procedure is.
If your car is still having problems after changing the battery on your key fob, you may need to contact an expert locksmith or your dealer to have the battery or fob repaired. In some cases, a new battery can be used to program the key fob with your car 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 have not been damaged.
Damaged Buttons
In the course of time, your car key fob's buttons are likely to be subjected to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are susceptible to being dropped and are often sat in purses and pockets. This could cause internal components to get damaged or loose, which will result in them not responding to your touch. A few easy steps can often fix this problem, but occasionally, you might need to take your fob to an expert locksmith.
Apart from batteries that are dead The most frequent reason why a key fob for a car will not work is because it requires new batteries. These little coin-shaped batteries are fairly inexpensive and it's easy to find them at hardware stores or large-box retailers. You can also look up videos on YouTube and in your owner's manual that describe how to replace the battery in your key fob.
It's important to note that some keyfobs require specific steps to enter the necessary programming mode for changing the batteries. In these instances you'll need to consult the owner's guide and/or an auto locksmith to ensure that you follow the proper procedure.
If you leave your key fob in extreme hot or cold temperatures can also cause it to cease working in particular in the event that the battery has gone out. In key repair car 'll have to talk to an automotive locksmith or your dealer to obtain an alternative fob.
If you are still unable to 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 attempt to repair this by taking the key fob off and putting a piece of metallic tape over the worn out contacts.
It is important to know that certain key fobs are difficult to open and cannot be opened with confidence without the right equipment that is only available at a dealership. If you try to open yours with a screwdriver or another tool it's possible to damage the circuit board inside and end up with an expense for repairs that is higher than you needed.
Circuit Board Issues
The circuit board could be the reason for your key fob not working as well as it did as well. The circuit board is an electronic chip in the case. It sends signals to the car telling it that you want to lock the doors, open the trunk or switch off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your keyfob will not be able to send these signals.
If you're a tech expert you can repair a damaged circuitboard yourself. Begin by taking the battery off and separating the holder and rubber button assembly from the circuit board. Clean the plastic frame and contacts with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This should eliminate any corrosion that blocks the circuit board from transmitting signals.
After you've assembled your key fob, make sure that it is in programming mode. Usually, this requires switching it off and on several times, so be sure to consult the owner's manual for specific instructions. Many car manufacturers have online videos that show how to accomplish this. If you're not sure to do this, you can bring your key fob into the locksmith that specializes in the vehicle model you have.
Some of the more modern key fobs come with a receiver built in that allows you access your trunk, lock your doors, and turn on your ignition from an extended distance. They're generally more reliable and work across a greater range. If your key fob does not work as far as it used too it could be due to an internal problem that's not working properly or an antenna that isn't functioning properly.
The most likely reason for a key fob that isn't working is the battery is dead or not functioning properly. It's cheap and easy to replace. If the fob's buttons or circuit board has been damaged, you'll need get it repaired professionally and reprogrammed. This service is offered by the majority of dealerships, but you can also find a shop that specializes in your particular brand.
Forgotten Key
When you've lost your car keys fob, it could be a nightmare. You can turn the house upside down by retracing your steps and looking everywhere. This includes in bags, drawers and under couches. You'll find it eventually. Prevention is the best way to prevent losing your key fob. If you are prone to forgetfulness or have a slight hint of ADD, make several copies and distribute them to your family and acquaintances so that you don't be in a state of panic and worry for four hours if you lose your key fob.
Most cars come with key fobs that let you lock and unlock your doors. You can also in some cases set off an alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more sophisticated models have even more exciting features like the ability call your car's location by pressing the button. This feature is not available on all models, but if your car is one of the models that can do it - like the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance You're in good hands.
The good thing 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 your original. You can also talk to an automotive locksmith to have them create an entirely new key fob that has was programmed to your specific vehicle. However, before doing this consult with your dealer to see if they can offer an alternative key fob at a cheaper cost.
If you don't have an extra key and you don't have a spare, the only way to start your vehicle is to contact an auto locksmith who will either replace the key fob you have or create a new one. A dealer can also do this however, you'll need have your car towed in and some documents to prove ownership. These services are relatively inexpensive in comparison to the cost of a replacement key at your dealer.