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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 have issues with time, like a loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home. The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs use batteries with a flat design 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 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 to determine if the key fob's buttons still function. If they do not then the issue could be with the locks on your car. If your keys do not unlock, there may be a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or in other places on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key, and try again. If this fails to unlock the door, certain cars have an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app permit owners to open their doors with their smartphones. These apps are charged monthly subscription fees. Also, make sure that your key fob doesn't take the car's battery away by resting on them. A dead fob can drain your battery quickly especially if it's used to control the TV or phone while you're watching. The key fob should be held right up to your car's start button can sometimes start an ignition key fob with an empty battery. This quick fix can save you from a trip to your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers. You can also determine whether your key fob is actually dead by testing it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it's not working it's likely that the battery needs replacement. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse. Damaged Buttons It's possible that your key fob has a damaged button. The key fob has an electronic circuit that has “contact pads” that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears away over time. This wear could cause your fob to react slower, or not respond at all. The good news is that the contact pad on the car key fob is simple to replace and is done by using a flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is severely smashed or harmed in any way, it could be more difficult to open the case, and you'll have to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired. It's not common for a key fob be thrown around, trampled upon or even exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to the keys, which could result in them breaking or snapping them. It can also cause internal damage to the fob that could result in an issue. This is why it's an ideal idea to keep a spare key fob inside your wallet or pocket in case you break the one you have. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding in the way they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good working condition. Key fobs do not require any special electronic device. They utilize the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at drug, hardware, and online stores. If the battery is in good condition, the buttons may be dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If the buttons don't work, you could try another car key fob. This will help determine whether the issue is yours or a particular model. If the other key fob works, then yours might need to be reset or replaced. Reprogramming The hidden world of fobs for car keys is more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs function using radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to unlock and begin the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons and with only a few exceptions it has to be done by a dealer. The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of your vehicle It is therefore essential to read the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only dealerships are capable of creating a brand new key fob and then resync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting a shop. Certain car models erase all other fobs once they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll have to have any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This can be costly, especially if your fob has stopped working. Even if the mechanical key won't work to start your vehicle, it's a great idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk. If you do decide to try and reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a gruelling journey. You'll be disappointed by numerous guides on the internet that claim to be successful. Many of these guides were written by people who have no experience and are based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even state that you can program your car key fob in just a few clicks, which can be very misleading. The battery is usually secured with an elastic clip that can be removed easily. However the circuit board houses the battery, and you'll need to pry the battery out using a tool. Once you've gotten inside, you'll be able locate the button cell battery, which is usually a small watch battery that is available at a variety of pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always worth trying this first before replacing the entire unit. Replacement If the car key fob is damaged or isn't functioning it is crucial to know there are several ways to address the issue. It may be possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair might be required. key repair service 's also beneficial to have a spare key fob in case one gets lost or stolen. Most modern key fobs include the physical key, in addition to 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. It's therefore important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to get an alternative key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle. Fobs use a small radio transmitter on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button, the transmitter emits an RF signal unique to the car receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the vehicle and start it from a distance without inserting the key into the ignition or turning a lock. If the buttons on the fob you have purchased fail to respond or function intermittently it could mean that they've been damaged by water or other causes. You can repair the fob if you take it apart and examine for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this does not solve the problem, try reprogramming it or purchasing a new fob. It is best to check with a local auto dealer or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs less expensive, but it's crucial to look up the brands and read reviews before attempting to program them. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith other models require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a vehicle dealer or auto technician.