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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 have issues, such as a losing functionality. Certain issues might require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home. The first step is typically to change the battery. Most fobs are powered by flat watches-style batteries that can be easily found in hardware or auto parts stores. Dead Battery It can be a major problem when the battery of a key fob goes out. This is especially true if you are away from home. There are solutions to get your vehicle back on the road in case you're keyless entry system isn't working. One of the first things you should be sure of is whether the key fob's buttons still function. If they do not then the issue could be with the car's locks. If your keys don't work try looking for a mechanical key slot hidden in the trim of your door handle or in another location on the car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't unlock the door, some vehicles have an application that lets you unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example let owners unlock their doors using smartphones. However, these apps have a monthly cost. Also, make sure that your key fob doesn't drain your car's batteries by being plugged into them. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, particularly if you use its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone. vehicle key repairs that's just low on battery can be activated by holding it up to the start button. It's a simple fix that will save you going to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations. You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by testing it in a different vehicle that has push-button ignition. If it doesn't, you may need to replace the battery in your fob. This is why it's a good idea keep an extra key fob in your bag or purse. Damaged Buttons It's possible that the key fob is damaged and has a button. Your key fob is likely to have a circuit board with “contact pads” for each button, and these tiny pads are coated with an electricity conducting film that wears down over time. This wear could cause your fob to respond less or not at all. The good news is that the pad in the car key fob is simple to replace and it can be done by using a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged it may be difficult to open. You'll have to take it to an auto repair shop to have the fob repaired. It's not unusual for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on or exposed to water. These incidents can result in physical damage, like breaking the keys and snapping them. This can also cause internal damage to the fob that could result in an issue. This is why it's always an ideal idea to keep an extra key fob in your purse or pocket in case you damage the one you own. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding as they should, first verify that the battery is in good condition. Remember that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device; the majority of them use the same two-dollar batteries used in hearing aids and watches and are available at hardware stores, drug stores, and online. If the battery is functioning properly it is possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them using a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can test a different key fob to determine if the issue is with yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If lowest price is working it's likely that the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed or even replaced completely. Reprogramming The secret world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths suggest. The basic fobs operate by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs must be properly programmed in order to be able to be able to unlock and start the car. Reprogramming a key fob is not as easy as pressing a few keys. It's usually done by the dealer. Consult your owner's guide for specific instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes have their own proprietary technology that guarantees only dealerships can design an entirely new fob and then sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops may also offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices before choosing a shop. Some car models will erase other fobs once they've been programmed, meaning you'll need any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This is a costly proposition especially if you're only down to just one working fob. It is always advisable to have at least one backup mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it doesn't start the car. Be prepared for a difficult experience if you opt to reprogram your fob 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 statements. Some of these guides claim that you can program your car key fob with just the click of a button. This is false. Most key fobs are held in place by a clip made of plastic that is easy to remove however, the battery is within the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pull it out using a tool. Once you get inside, you should be able to find the button cell battery which is typically a small watch battery that can be purchased at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's typically simple to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole unit, it's worth trying first. Replacement If a car key fob is damaged or fails to function, it's important to know there are several ways to fix 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 needed. A spare fob can be helpful in the event that one is lost or stolen. Most modern key fobs include the physical key, in addition to the electronic component which makes them more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Certain “smart” fobs also include a remote starter built-in. It's important to understand that it could take up to an hour to cut and program a replacement fob for your vehicle. Fobs utilize a small radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button the transmitter emits an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal with preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the vehicle from a distance without the need to insert the ignition key in. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You can fix the fob by taking it apart and look for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this does not solve the issue, try reprogramming or buying a new fob. Before buying a replacement key fob online, you should contact a professional locksmith or your local dealer to ensure that it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Fobs purchased from a third party can be cheaper however, you must study the reviews and brands before attempting to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by an accredited locksmith, but other models require programming equipment that only a technician in the automotive industry or dealer can utilize.