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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, including a loss of functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, but most are fixable at home. The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are readily available in hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery It can be a major inconvenience when a key fob's battery goes out. This is especially the case when you're away from home. There are ways to get back on the road even if your vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working. The first thing to check is if the buttons on the fob are working. If they do not it could be a problem in the car's locks. If your keys do not unlock, you might find a mechanical slot within the trim around your door handles or elsewhere in your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, certain cars come with an application that lets you unlock it remotely. For instance the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly cost. You should also check that your key fob does not drain the batteries of your car by being plugged into them. A dead key fob will quickly drain your battery, especially when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or speaking on the phone. A key fob that's just low on battery may be activated by holding it right up to the start button. It's a quick fix that will save you a trip to the dealership or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations. If your key fob does not work try testing it in a car with an electronic starter button. If it doesn't, you might need to replace the fob battery. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare key fob inside the bag or purse. Damaged Buttons It's possible that your key fob is damaged and has a button. The key fob has an electronic circuit that has “contact pads” which are covered by an electrically conductor 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 pad inside a car key fob is simple to replace and is done with the help of a flathead screwdriver. If the key fob is badly smashed or harmed in any way, it may be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired. It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these incidents can result in physical damage, like bending and snapping the keys. This can also alter the internals of the fob and could cause a malfunction. This is why it's recommended to keep a spare key fob inside your purse or pocket in case you accidentally break the one you already have. Examine the battery first to determine If your key fob's buttons aren't responding like they should. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device; they're typically powered by the same two-dollar batteries used in watches and hearing aids and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online. If the battery is in good condition it's possible that the buttons are dirty or worn down and can be cleaned by using a damp cloth to wipe them down. If they're still not responding, try a different type of key fob to determine if the problem is related to yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other fob functions it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed or possibly replaced entirely. Reprogramming The secret world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths would suggest. The basic fobs operate by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific vehicles. The fobs have to be programmed correctly to open and start the vehicle. Unfortunately it's not as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with a few exceptions, it needs to be handled by a dealer. Refer to the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that guarantees only dealers can create an entirely new fob and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices before selecting a shop. Some car models will erase other fobs when they're reprogrammed, which means you'll need to get any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be expensive particularly if your fob isn't working anymore. It is always advisable 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 gruelling experience if you opt to reprogram your fob yourself. There are numerous guides available on the internet that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. A lot of these guides were written by people who have no prior experience in this field and are often founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some of them even claim that you can program your car key fob in just a few clicks, which is extremely misleading. The battery is usually secured with a plastic clip, which can be removed easily. However car key immobiliser repair , and you'll need to remove the battery using the aid of a tool. You should be able find the button battery. It's typically an insignificant battery for a watch that can be purchased at any pharmacies or home improvement stores. Replacing the battery is usually an easy process, but it's always a good idea to test this first before replacing the entire unit. Replacement There are several ways to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. It's as easy as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, however a more extensive repair may be required. A spare fob could be useful in the event that one is stolen or lost. Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace because they contain an actual key along with electronics. Some “smart” fobs have a built-in remote starter. It's important to be aware that it could take up to an hour to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle. Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuitboard. By pressing a button the transmitter sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver 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 function intermittently it could indicate that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You may be able to fix the fob by taking it apart and looking for any damaged or unresponsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the issue, you can try reprogramming the fob or purchasing an entirely new fob. Before purchasing a replacement key fob on the internet, seek out a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to ensure that it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper however, you must research reviews and brands before trying to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith, others require special equipment for programming that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.