Repair Car Key: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
How to Repair a Car Key Fob
You key fob is likely to be jostled frequently. This can cause its buttons to get stuck or broken. Try giving remote car key repair near me and then swapping the battery, if necessary.
The majority of cars have batteries that look like coins. You can purchase at pharmacies and big box stores, as well as home improvement stores. However, some models require special programming equipment that only dealers have.
Dead Battery
The car key fob makes it easier to start your car and get into it. But what happens when you press the button a few times and your car isn't responding? This usually happens due to an inactive or dying battery. Luckily, the battery is simple to replace. You can find replacements in auto parts stores, supermarkets and even some home improvement stores.
However there are other features that the key fob has may not function. This could be due to an issue with the mechanical system or electrical issue or even a deprogramming mistake in your car's receiver. In these situations it's best to call a professional.
Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers have a key slot that is mechanical inside the fob to be used in the event of an unresponsive battery. In the majority of cases, a cover will be attached to the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. You can insert the actual key into the slot to open your doors and start your vehicle. Make sure to insert the key fob after you start the car!
If you have a Ford with SYNC Connect, you can start the car using the key fob. The majority of SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have a backup "E-blade" within the cupholder. This key can be used to push the starter button in case your key fob isn't able to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, you should make sure the battery is fully charged. You can also consult the owner's manual to learn the best way to use it.
If remote car key repair has problems after changing the battery on your key fob, you may need to contact an authorized locksmith or dealer to get the fob or battery repaired. In certain cases the key fob could be programmed to your vehicle with a new battery from the dealership or at selected Interstate All Battery Center locations. This will only work so long as the antennas and circuit board have not been damaged.
Damaged Buttons
Through the course of time your car key fob's buttons are likely to be subjected to a lot wear and wear and tear. They are susceptible to dropping and spend a lot of time being carried around in pockets and purses. This jolting can cause the internal components to become loose or damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. This problem can be fixed by a few simple steps, but you may require the assistance of a locksmith.
The most frequent reason for a car keyfob that isn't working is that the batteries are dead. These little coins-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive and are easy to find them at hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also find videos explaining how to replace the key fob battery on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
It's also important to be aware that some key fobs require a specific procedure to enter the programming mode required to replace the battery. In these instances you'll have to consult your owner's manual and/or an authorized auto locksmith to ensure you're following the proper procedure.
If you leave your key fob in extreme cold or hot temperatures can cause it to stop working, especially if the battery has died. In such a case you'll have to talk to an automotive locksmith or dealer to get an alternative fob.
If you still can't press the buttons on your key fob, it may be due to the contacts being worn out. These contacts are rubber-like and coated with an electricity-conducting film, but they can start to wear out over time due to repeated use. You can fix this by taking the key fob apart and putting a piece metallic tape over the worn-out contacts.
It is important to know that certain key fobs can be extremely difficult to open and cannot be opened safely without specialized equipment only available at a dealership. If you try to open it using a screwdriver, or any other tool, you could end with damage to the circuit board. This could result in an even more costly repair bill.
Circuit Board Issues
If your key fob remains able to unlock your car's doors and start your engine but it's not working as far away as it did previously it could be a problem with the circuit board. The circuit board is an electronic chip within the case. It transmits signals to the car that tell it if you want to close the doors, lock the trunk, or turn off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your key fob will not be able transmit these signals.
If you have the technical know-how you can fix damaged circuit boards yourself. Remove the battery, then separate the rubber button assembly and holder from the circuit board. Use a cotton swab along with some rubbing alcohol to scrub around the contacts and the plastic frame. This should remove any rust that is preventing the circuit board from transmitting signals.
Then, once you've reassembled the key fob, be sure it's in programming mode. Go through the owner's manual to find instructions. Most vehicle manufacturers also have videos online that show how to do this. If you're not confident enough to complete it yourself, you can take your key fob to a locksmith that is trained to work on the specific model of your vehicle.
Certain of the latest key fobs come with a receiver built in that lets you access your trunk, lock your doors and switch on your ignition from a distance. In general, they are more reliable and operate over a greater range. If your key fob that is newer isn't working as far away as it did in the past, it could have a faulty antenna or some other issue within the internals.
The most likely cause for a key fob that isn't working is a dead or low battery. It's affordable and easy to replace. But if the fob's buttons or circuit board are damaged, you'll need be able to have it repaired professionally and reset. This service is provided by the majority of dealerships, but you can find a shop specializing in your car brand.
Forgotten Key
When you've lost your car keys fob, it can be a nightmare. You could turn your home upside down and retrace your steps, and looking everywhere including in drawers, bags, under couches, and even under your cat's bed. Then, you'll discover it. Prevention is the best way to ensure that you don't lose your key fob. If you've even a little ADD or are simply not paying attention, make several copies and distribute them to family and close friends members, so that if you lose yours, you don't have to spend hours sweating and blaming yourself for the rest of your life.
A lot of cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and in some instances, activate the alarm system or open the trunk. However, some of the more sophisticated models have even cooler features, like the ability to call your car at the press of a button. This feature isn't available on all models however if your car is one of the ones that can do it - the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance You're in luck.
If you have an extra car key fob programmed for your vehicle, you may use it in the event you lose the original. You can also talk to an automotive locksmith and have them create a new key fob that's specifically programmed for your vehicle. However, before you do this make contact with your dealer to see if they're able to offer the replacement key fob for you at a cheaper cost.
If you don't have spare keys, the only way to start your car is by calling an auto locksmith to come out and make a new key or replace the current key fob with a blank. Dealers are also able to do this however they'll need your vehicle to be towed and a proof of ownership. But the good thing is that these services are inexpensive, especially compared to buying a new key from a dealership, which can cost $200-$250.