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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 could experience problems such as losing functionality. Some issues may need professional attention, but many are fixable at home. The battery replacement is usually the first step. The majority of fobs have flat watches that are readily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery It can be a major inconvenience when the battery of a key fob dies. This is particularly true if you are away from home. There are ways to get back on the road when your car's keyless entry doesn't work. One of the first things you should check is whether the buttons on your key fob function. If they do not it could be a problem in the car's locks. If key repairs near me aren't unlocking you need to look for a mechanical key slot concealed in your door handle trim or on another part of the vehicle (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this fails there are some cars that have an app that can unlock doors remotely. For instance, the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app allow owners to unlock their doors with their smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription. It is also important to ensure that your key fob isn't draining the car's battery by resting on it. A dead fob will drain your battery fast particularly if it's used to control the TV or phone while you are watching. The key fob should be held right to the car's start button may cause a key fob with an empty battery. It's a quick fix that can save you a trip to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations. You can also find out whether your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it doesn't work it's likely that the battery requires replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob inside a purse or backpack. Damaged Buttons If your key fob is unable to open doors or start your vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons are damaged. Your key fob contains a circuit with “contact pads” which are covered by an electrically conductive film. This film wears off over time. This wear could make your fob respond slower or not at all. The pad that contacts a car keyfob can be easily replaced with a flat-head screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is badly damaged or smashed in any way, it might be more difficult to remove the case, and you'll need to take the fob to an auto repair shop to be repaired. It's not unusual for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on, or exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them. This can also cause internal damage to the fob that could cause a malfunction. This is why it's an ideal idea to keep an extra key fob in your wallet or pocket in the event that you damage the one you own. If your key fob's buttons aren't working as they should, you should first make sure the battery is in good condition. Key fobs do not require any special electronic device. They use the same battery for two dollars that is used in hearing aids and watches. These batteries are available at hardware, drug, and online stores. If the battery is functioning properly the buttons could be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can test a different key fob to see whether the problem is with yours, or with a specific type of car key fob. If the other fob is working then it's likely the key fob you have needs to be reprogrammed, or perhaps replaced entirely. Reprogramming The hidden world of car key fobs is more intricate than what some myths suggest. Basic fobs function on radio frequency signals specific to each vehicle. The fobs have to be programmed correctly to be able to open and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as simple as pressing several keys. It is usually handled by the dealer. Refer to the owner's manual for detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes, use proprietary technology that ensures only dealerships can design the new fob and sync it with your vehicle. Some independent shops might offer this service, so be sure to read reviews and prices before choosing the right shop. Certain car models erase all other fobs when they're programmed, meaning you'll need any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is a costly proposition, especially if you're down to one functioning fob. Even when the mechanical key doesn't work to start your car, it's a good idea to have a backup key that can open the doors and trunk. If you do decide to attempt to reprogram your fob yourself be prepared for a gruelling journey. There are many guides on the internet that promise success but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were created by people who have no experience in this area and are often based on unsubstantiated claims. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car's key fob with just a few clicks. This is misleading. Most key fobs are held by a plastic clip that's easy to loosen, however, the battery is located inside the circuit board, and you'll need to carefully pry it out using a tool. You should be able to find the button cell battery. It's usually tiny batteries for a watch, which can be purchased at any pharmacies or home improvement stores. Removing the battery is typically simple, and it's always worthwhile to try this first before replacing the entire unit. Replacement There are a variety of ways to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. It is possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However, a more extensive repair might be required. A spare fob is useful in the event one is lost or taken. Modern key fobs are more expensive and harder to replace because they contain the physical key as well as the electronic. Some “smart” fobs also come with a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to know that it could take up to an hour to have a new key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle. Fobs utilize a small radio transmitter on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. By pressing a button the transmitter emits an RF signal unique to the car's receiver. The receiver detects and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to open the car and start it from a distance, without placing the key in the ignition or turning the lock. If the buttons on your key fob fail to respond or operate intermittently it could indicate that they've been damaged by water or other factors. You can repair the fob by taking it apart and check for damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, try reprogramming your fob or purchasing an entirely new one. It is best to check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob online to ensure that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are many aftermarket fobs cheaper, but it's essential to look up the brands and read reviews prior to attempting to program them. Certain fobs can be modified by an experienced locksmith however, other models require programming equipment that only a mechanic or dealer is able to utilize.