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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 the loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home. Change the battery is often the first step. Most fobs utilize flat watch-style batteries that are readily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery When a key fob battery fails, it can be a major inconvenience especially if you're far from home. There are ways to get back on the road even if your car's keyless entry doesn't work. One of the first things to examine is to determine if the key fob's buttons still work. If they don't, the problem could be with the car's locks. If your keys do not unlock, there may be a mechanical slot within the trim around the door handles or in other places on your vehicle (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work there are some cars that have an app that allows you to unlock the doors remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app permit owners to open their doors with their smartphones. These apps charge a monthly subscription fee. You should also check that your key fob does not take the car's battery away by sitting on them. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, particularly if you use its remote functions while watching TV or speaking on the phone. A key fob that's low on battery can be activated by bringing it until you hit the start button. This simple fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or to certain Interstate All Battery Centers. You can also find out whether your key fob is actually dead by testing it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it's not working it's likely that the battery needs replacement. It's a good idea keep a spare key fob in your bag or purse. Damaged Buttons If your key fob isn't able to open doors or start the vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. The key fob may contain an electronic circuit board that has “contact pads” for each button. These tiny pads are coated with an electrically conducting film that wears down over time. The wear may make your fob respond slow or not respond at all. The good news is that the contact pad in a car key fob can be replaced easily, and can be done so using a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly damaged, it will be difficult to open. You'll have to take it to an auto repair shop to repair the fob. It's not unusual for a key fob to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on or exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to the keys, including bending or snapping them. It could also alter the internals of the fob, which could lead to an issue. It's a good idea, so, always keep an extra fob in your purse or pocket in the event that the one you're using fails. Make sure the battery is charged first to determine if the buttons on your key fob aren't working in the way they should. Keep in mind that key fobs don't come with a particular type of electronic device – most of them run on the same two-dollar batteries used in watches and hearing aids, which are readily accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online. If the battery is good it is possible that the buttons are dirty or worn out. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If the buttons do not work, you could try a different car key fob. This will help you determine if the problem is yours or a specific model. If the other fob works it's likely that your key fob has to be reset or perhaps replaced entirely. Reprogramming The world of car key fobs is much more intricate than what some myths suggest. Basic fobs work using radio frequency signals that are unique to each car. key fob repairs need to be properly programmed in order to be able to unlock and start the car. Reprogramming a key fob not as easy as pressing several keys. It's usually done by the dealer. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions. Certain manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technology that makes sure only the dealership can create the new fob and sync it with your vehicle. However, some independent shops can provide this service as well so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting the right shop. Certain models of cars will erase all other fobs after they've been reprogrammed, which means you'll have to have any additional fobs professionally programmed. This can be costly especially if you're only down to just one working fob. Even when remote key repair doesn't start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk. Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you choose to reprogram your fob by yourself. There are many guides online that promise to work but you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were written by people with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some even claim that you can program your car key fob in only a few clicks, which is extremely false. The battery is typically secured with an elastic clip that can be easily removed. However the circuit board is home to the battery, and you'll need to pry the battery out using an instrument. You should be able to locate the button battery. This is usually an insignificant battery for watches that is available at most pharmacies or at home improvement stores. It's typically easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole device, you should try it first. Replacement There are several methods to fix a broken or non-functioning car key fob. An easy fix could be as easy as replacing the battery or changing the program on the key fob, but a more thorough repair may be required. It's also beneficial to keep a spare fob in case one is lost or stolen. Most modern key fobs include an incredibly small physical key in addition the electronic components, making them both pricier and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Some “smart fobs” even come with remote starters. Therefore, it's important to be aware that it can take up to an hour to get an alternative key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle. Fobs utilize a small radio transmitter mounted on circuit boards to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing an appropriate button will activate the transmitter, which sends a unique RF signal to the car's receiver. The receiver is able to recognize and compare the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to unlock the car and start it from a distance without putting the key in the ignition or turning the lock. If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or work sporadically it could mean that they've been damaged due to water or other elements. You can repair the fob if you take it apart and check for broken or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't resolve the issue, try reprogramming your fob or getting a new one. Before purchasing a replacement key fob online, you should contact a professional locksmith or your local dealer to make sure it's compatible with the security system of your vehicle. There are a variety of aftermarket key fobs available cheaper, but it's important to research the brands and read reviews before trying to program them. While some fobs can be replaced by a trusted locksmith, other models require special programming equipment that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.