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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, such as a loss of functionality. While some issues might require professional attention, the majority can be fixed at home. The first step is generally to change the battery. Most fobs use batteries with a flat design that are readily available at auto parts stores. Dead Battery It can be a major problem when a key fob's battery is dead. This is especially true when you are far from home. There are ways to get back on the road the car's keyless entry isn't working. The first thing to test is if the buttons on the key fob are working. If they don't it could be a problem 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 in your 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 Application and myMazda apps, for example allow owners to open their doors using smartphones. These apps do charge monthly subscription fees. You should also check that your key fob doesn't drain your car's batteries by resting on them. A dead key fob can drain your battery, particularly when you utilize its remote features while watching TV or talking on the phone. A key fob that's low on battery may be started by holding it until you hit the start button. It's a quick fix that can save you a trip to the dealership or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations. If your key fob won't work, you can test it in a vehicle with an ignition button. If it fails it's likely that the battery needs replacement. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse. Damaged Buttons If your key fob is unable to unlock doors or start the vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons are damaged. Your key fob contains an electronic circuit that has “contact pads” which are covered by an electrically conductor film. The film wears away over time. This wear could cause your device to respond more slowly, or even not to respond at all. The contact pad on car keys can be easily replaced using a flat-head screwdriver. However, if the key fob has been badly damaged or broken in any way, it might be more difficult to open the case, and you'll need to take the fob into an auto repair shop for repairs. It's not uncommon for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, walked on, or exposed to water. All of these incidents can cause physical damage, such as breaking the keys and snapping them. This could also cause internal damage to the fob that could lead to an issue. This is why it's a good idea to carry a spare key fob in your pocket or wallet in case you break the one you have. Examine the battery first to determine if your key fob buttons are not responding like they should. Key fobs do not require a special type of electronic device. They use the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. They are sold at drug, hardware, and online stores. If the battery is functioning properly it is possible that the buttons are worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to determine whether the problem is with yours or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other fob works it's likely that your key fob needs to be reprogrammed, or possibly replaced entirely. Reprogramming The hidden world of car key fobs is much more complicated than the myths would suggest. The basic fobs function by using unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs need to be programmed correctly in order for them to unlock and start the vehicle. Unfortunately the process of reprogramming a fob isn't as simple as pressing a few buttons and with very few exceptions it has to be done by a dealer. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that makes sure only dealerships can design the new fob and sync it with your vehicle. However certain independent shops offer this service as well so make sure to review reviews and prices prior to selecting the shop. Certain models of cars will erase other fobs when they're programmed, meaning you'll have to have any additional fobs programmed professionally. This can be costly, especially if your fob is no longer working. It's always recommended to have at minimum a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the trunk and doors even if it's not able to start the car. Be prepared for a difficult experience if you choose to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are countless guides online that promise success, but you'll likely 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 own car key fob with just a few clicks, which is extremely misleading. Most key fobs are held by a clip made of plastic that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is within the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pull it out with a tool. You should be able find the button battery. This is usually tiny batteries for watches that you can purchase at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always a good idea to test this first before replacing the entire unit. Replacement If the car key fob is damaged or isn't functioning it is important to know there are several options to remedy the problem. It could be possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming your key fob. However an extensive repair may be needed. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in case one gets lost or stolen. Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace due to the fact that they have the physical key along with electronics. Some “smart fobs” even include a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to understand that it can take up to an hour for a replacement key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle. Fobs communicate with the car's receiver by using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on the circuit board. By pressing a button the transmitter transmits an RF signal specific to the car receiver. remote car key repairs receives the signal and checks it against preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to start the car from a distance, without the need to put the key in the ignition. If your fob's buttons are not responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You can repair the fob if you take it apart and look for damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the problem, you can try reprogramming your fob or buying an entirely new one. It is recommended to consult an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith before buying a replacement keyfob on the internet to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's important to study the brands and read reviews before trying to program them. While some fobs are able to be replaced by a trusted locksmith, other models require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.