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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 malfunction. While some issues may require professional attention, the majority are fixable at home. The first step is generally to change the battery. Most fobs use batteries with a flat design that are easy to find at hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery If a key fob battery fails, it can be a huge inconvenience especially if you're far from home. There are solutions to get your vehicle back on the road if your keyless entry system has stopped working. One of the first things to examine is whether the key fob's buttons still function. If they do not it could be a problem with the locks on your car. If your keys will 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, some cars come with an app that allows you to unlock the door remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app and myMazda app permit owners to open their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps require an annual cost. Also, make sure that your key fob does not drain the batteries of your car by resting on them. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, especially when you use its remote features while watching TV or speaking on the phone. The key fob should be held right up to your car's start button can sometimes start the key fob that has low battery. It's a quick fix that will save you going to the dealer or even select Interstate All Battery Center locations. You can also determine whether your key fob actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it's not working, the fob battery probably requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob inside your bag or purse. Damaged Buttons If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob is equipped with a circuit with “contact pads” which are covered by an electrically conductory film. The film wears off over time. This wear could cause your fob to respond more slowly, or even not to respond at all. The pad that contacts a car keyfob can be easily replaced using a flathead screwdriver. If the key fob has been badly smashed or harmed in any way, it may be more difficult to open up the case, and you'll be required to take the fob into an auto repair shop to be repaired. It's not unusual for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these events can cause physical damage to the keys, including bending or snapping them. It could also affect the internals of your fob and could cause a malfunction. It's a good idea, so, always keep a spare fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you currently have fails. Examine the battery first to determine to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't working as they should. Keep in remote key fob repair that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device – most of them run on the same batteries for two dollars that are used in hearing aids and watches, which are readily accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and on the internet. If the battery is good, the buttons may be worn or dirty. 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 related to yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other key fob functions, then yours might need to be reprogrammed or replaced. Reprogramming The world of car keys fobs is more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs work on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as simple as pressing several keys. It is usually handled by the dealer. The procedure for reprogramming the fob is dependent on the manufacturer and model year of the car you own It is therefore essential to read the owner's manual for step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes, use proprietary technology that ensures only dealerships can design a new fob and re-sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops may also offer this service, so check reviews and prices prior to choosing the right shop. Certain models of cars erase other fobs when they're changed. This means you'll need to have additional fobs programmed by an expert. This can be costly especially if the fob isn't working anymore. It's always recommended to have at minimum a spare mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it doesn't start the car. If you do attempt to reprogram your fob yourself, be prepared for a difficult journey. You'll be disappointed with the countless online guides that promise success. Many of these guides were created by people who have no knowledge of this field and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your own car key fob with just a few clicks, which is extremely misleading. The battery is typically held in place by clips made of plastic, which is easily removed. However the circuit board is home to the battery, so you'll need to remove the battery using the aid of a tool. Once you've got inside, you'll be able to find the button cell battery, which is usually a small watch battery that can be found at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. The replacement of the battery is generally simple, and it's always a good idea to test first before replacing the entire device. Replacement There are a variety of 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 might be required. A spare fob is helpful in the event that one is lost or stolen. The majority of modern key fobs have a small physical key in addition the electronic component which makes them more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some “smart fobs” include a remote starter. It's important to be aware that it can take an hour or more 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. Pressing the button triggers the transmitter, which sends an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal with preprogrammed codes. This lets the driver unlock the car and begin it from a distance without placing the key in the ignition or turning a lock. If your fob's buttons aren't working or responding in a sporadic manner, they may be damaged by water. It is possible to repair the fob if you take it apart and check for damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, try reprogramming the fob or purchasing a new fob. Before purchasing a replacement key fob online, contact an expert locksmith or your local auto dealer to make sure it's compatible with your vehicle's security systems. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's important to research the brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them. Certain fobs can be modified by an experienced locksmith and other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer can use.