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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 may be affected by issues such as losing functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, but many are fixable at home. The first step is typically to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style battery, which is easily available at hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery If the battery for a key fob is dead, it could be a huge inconvenience, especially if you're away from home. There are ways to get your car back on the road if your keyless entry system has stopped working. The first thing to test is to see if the buttons on the fob still work. If they do not, the problem could be in the car's locks. If your keys won't unlock, you may find a mechanical slot in 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 fails to unlock the door, some vehicles come with an app that allows you to unlock the door remotely. FordPass Connect MyChevrolet Mobile Application and myMazda apps, for example allow owners to open their doors with their smartphones. However, these apps are subject to a monthly fee. It is also important to ensure whether your key fob won't drain the batteries of your car by sitting on them. A dead fob can drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control your phone or TV while you're watching. Holding the key fob right up to your car's start button could cause the key fob that has a low battery. This quick fix can save you from having to visit your dealer or Interstate All Battery Centers. You can also determine if your key fob is actually dead by trying it in a different vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it fails the battery of the fob needs replacement. This is why it's a good idea keep a spare key fob in the bag or purse. Damaged Buttons If your key fob is unable to unlock doors or start your vehicle remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. Your key fob is equipped with an electronic circuit that has “contact pads” which are covered by an electrically conductory film. The film wears away over time. The wear may make your fob respond slower or not at all. The good news is that the pad in the key fob of a car can be replaced easily, and it can be done with the help of an easy flathead screwdriver. If, however, the key fob is badly smashed or harmed in any way, it may be more difficult to open the case, and you'll need to take the fob into an auto repair shop to be repaired. It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, trodden on or exposed to water. All of these can cause physical damage to keys, including bending or snapping them. This can also alter the internals of the fob which could result in an issue. It's a good idea, so, always keep an extra fob in your wallet or pocket in case the one you're currently using is damaged. Check the battery first if your key fob buttons aren't responding as they should. Key fobs do not require an electronic device. They utilize the same two-dollar battery that is used in hearing aids and watches. The batteries are available at hardware, drug, and online stores. If the battery is fine it's likely that the buttons are just dirty or worn down, and can be easily cleaned using a damp cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, test a different key fob to see whether the problem is related to yours or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other key fob works, then yours might need to be reset or replaced. Reprogramming The hidden world of fobs for car keys is more complicated than most myths suggest. The basic fobs operate on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs need to be programmed correctly in order to be able to unlock and start the car. Unfortunately it's not as simple as pressing a few buttons, and with a few exceptions, it must be handled by a dealer. Check the owner's manual for more detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes, use proprietary technologies that only the dealership is able to create a new key fob, and then sync it to your vehicle. Some independent shops may offer this service, so check reviews and prices before selecting the right shop. Certain car models erase other fobs after they've been changed, so you'll need any additional fobs professionally programmed. This is an expensive proposition particularly if you're down to just one working fob. repair key 's always recommended to have at minimum a backup mechanical key that you can use to unlock the trunk and doors even if it's not able to start the car. Be prepared for a frustrating experience if you choose to reprogram your fob yourself. There are many guides online that promise success however, you're likely to be disappointed. Many of these guides were created by people who have no knowledge of this field and often are founded on unsubstantiated claims. Some even claim that you can program your own car key fob in only a few clicks, which is very confusing. The battery is typically secured with an elastic clip that can be easily removed. However, the circuit board contains the battery, and you will need to carefully pry the battery out using a tool. Once you get inside, you should be able to locate the button cell battery which is typically a tiny watch battery that can be purchased at a variety of pharmacies or at home improvement stores. Replacing the battery is usually an easy process, but it's always worthwhile to try first before replacing the entire unit. Replacement There are a variety of ways to fix a broken or malfunctioning car key fob. It could be possible to fix the problem quickly by replacing the battery or reprogramming the key fob. However an extensive repair may be required. A spare fob can be useful in the event one is stolen or lost. The majority of modern key fobs have the physical key in addition to the electronic components they use, which makes them both more expensive and more difficult to replace than traditional keys. Some “smart” fobs even come with a remote starter. It's important to understand that it can take an hour or more to cut and program an alternative fob for your vehicle. Fobs communicate with the car's receiver using a tiny radio transmitter built into a circuitboard. By pressing a button the transmitter sends an RF signal specific to the car receiver. The receiver recognizes the signal and verifies it against the preprogrammed codes. This allows the driver to unlock the vehicle and start it from a distance, without placing the key in the ignition or turning the lock. If your key fob buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they could have been damaged by water. You can fix the fob if you take it apart and look for buttons that are not responsive or broken. If this doesn't solve the issue, try reprogramming or buying a new fob. Before purchasing a replacement key fob online, you should contact a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to confirm that it is compatible with your vehicle's security systems. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper, but you should research reviews and brands before trying to program them yourself. Some fobs can be changed by a locksmith who is reputable and other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer is able to utilize.