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Car Key Fob Repair – How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working Over time, key fobs can experience problems such as losing functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, but many can be fixed at home. Change the battery is often the first step. Most fobs run on a flat watch-style batteries, which can be easily found at auto parts or hardware stores. Dead Battery If the battery for a key fob is dead, it could be a major inconvenience, especially if you're away from home. Fortunately, there are ways to get back on the road even if your vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working. One of the first things you should check is whether the key fob's buttons still function. If they do, the issue could be with the car's locks instead of the fob. If the keys won't unlock try looking for a key slot with a mechanical lock located in the door handle trim or somewhere else on the car (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, certain cars have an app that allows you to unlock it remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors with their smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription. Also, make sure whether your key fob won't drain the batteries of your car by being plugged into them. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, especially if you use its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone. A key fob that's low on battery can sometimes be started by holding it until you hit the start button. It's a quick solution that could save you a trip to the dealer or select Interstate All Battery Center locations. You can also determine whether your key fob is actually dead by testing it in another vehicle with push-button ignition. If it doesn't work, the fob battery probably requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in a purse or backpack. Damaged Buttons It's possible that your key fob is damaged and has a button. Your key fob contains a circuit with “contact pads” that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears off over time. This wear could cause your device to respond slower or not at all. The good news is that the contact pad inside the car key fob is simple to replace and can be done so using an easy flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it will be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto shop to repair the fob. It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, including breaking the keys and snapping them. It can also cause internal damage to the fob that could cause malfunction. This is why it's always recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in case you accidentally damage the one you own. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding to the extent they should, first verify that the battery is in good condition. Be aware that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device – the majority of them use the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids that are readily accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and online. If the battery is good it is possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, you can test an alternative car key fob. This will help you determine whether the issue is yours or a particular model. If the other fob is working, it's likely that your key fob has to be reprogrammed, or even replaced completely. Reprogramming The world of fobs for car keys is more complicated than most myths suggest. Basic fobs operate using radio frequency signals that are specific to each vehicle. The fobs must be programmed correctly in order to open and start the car. Reprogramming a key fob is not as easy as pressing a few keys. It's usually done by the dealer. The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of the car you own and it's essential to read the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. car key and repair , like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealerships are capable of creating a brand new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices prior to choosing a shop. Some car models will erase all other fobs once they're changed. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This can be expensive, especially if your fob has stopped working. It is always advisable to have a spare mechanical key you can use to open the doors and trunk, even if it won't start the car. Be prepared for a gruelling experience if you choose to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are many guides online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. A majority of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some even claim that you can program your car key fob with just a few clicks, which is extremely confusing. The battery is usually secured with a plastic clip, which can be easily removed. However, the circuit board contains the battery, and you will need to carefully remove the battery using a tool. You should be able to find the button battery. It's typically tiny batteries for a watch, which can be purchased at any home improvement or pharmacies. The replacement of the battery is generally simple, and it's always worthwhile to try this first before replacing the entire device. Replacement If a car key fob has been damaged or has stopped working it is important to know that there are a few ways to address the issue. An easy fix could be as easy as replacing the battery or programming the key fob but a more thorough repair may be required. A spare fob could be helpful in the event that one is lost or taken. The majority of modern key fobs have a small physical key in addition the electronic component they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some “smart fobs” include remote starters. As such, it's important to understand that it can take up to an hour to get a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle. Fobs use a small radio transmitter that is mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal specific to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and begin it from a distance, without putting the key in the ignition or turning a lock. If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or function intermittently it could indicate that they have been damaged by water or other causes. It is possible to repair the fob if you take it apart and check for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the problem, try reprogramming it or purchasing an entirely new fob. You should check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith before buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to make sure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper, but you should look into the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by an accredited locksmith however, other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer can utilize.