Repair Car Key: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
How to Repair a Car Key Fob You key fob will likely be jostled often. This can cause the buttons to get stuck or break. If necessary, you can give it a thorough cleaning and replace the battery. The majority of cars have a coin style battery, which you can purchase at big box stores or home improvement stores as well as pharmacies. Certain models require programming equipment that is only available to dealers. Dead Battery The car key fob is a small and useful device that makes entering your vehicle and launching it easier than ever. But what happens if you press the button a couple of times and your car doesn't respond? The most common cause for this is a dead battery. The battery can be replaced easily. You can get replacements in auto parts stores and supermarkets, as well as some home improvement centers. A few of the other features offered by the key fob may not function. This could be due to an issue with the mechanism, an electrical problem or even a mishap with the deprogramming in the car's receiver. In these cases, it's probably best to call a professional. Most manufacturers have a mechanical slot on the fob to be used in the event of dead cells. Most of the time the slot for keys is hidden behind a cover that is attached to the fob handle. You can insert the actual key into the slot to unlock your doors and start your vehicle. Just don't forget to re-insert the key fob when you start the car! If you're fortunate enough to have a Ford vehicle that is equipped with SYNC Connect, there's a way you can start the car without the key fob. The majority of SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have a backup “E-blade” inside the cupholder. It is a mechanical key that can be used to press the starter button, should your key fob fail to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, ensure that the battery in your car is charged and that you read your owner's manual to see what the procedure. If your car is still having issues after replacing the battery on your key fob, you may need to contact an authorized locksmith or dealer to have the battery or fob repaired. In certain cases, the key fob can be programmed into your car with a new battery from the dealership or at certain Interstate All Battery Center locations. This will only work as long as the antennas and circuit board are not damaged. Damaged Buttons The buttons on your car key fob are bound to experience a lot of wear and tear over the course of their lives. They are susceptible to being dropped and are often sat in pockets and purses. This could cause internal components to become damaged or loose, which can result in them not responding to your touch. This problem can be fixed by following a few steps, however you may require the assistance of a locksmith. The most common reason for a car keyfob to stop working is that the batteries are dead. These tiny coin-shaped batteries are sold at most hardware stores and large-box retailers. They aren't expensive. You can also find videos on YouTube and in your owner's manual that describe how to replace the battery on your key fob. It's also important to know that some key fobs require a specific procedure to enter the programming mode required to change the battery. In these instances you'll need consult the owner's guide and/or an auto locksmith to ensure that you're following the proper procedure. If you leave your key fob in extreme cold or hot temperatures could cause it to cease working, especially in the event that the battery has gone out. If this happens, you'll require contacting an automotive locksmith or dealer for a new fob. If the buttons on your key fob still don't respond it could be because the contacts inside are 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 of metallic tape over the worn-out contacts. It is important to know that some key fobs can be extremely difficult to open. They can only be opened with specialized equipment available at a dealership. If you try to open yours with the screwdriver or any other tool it's likely that you'll damage the circuit board inside and end up with an expense for repairs that is higher than you might have otherwise needed. Circuit Board Issues The circuit board could be the reason for your key fob not functioning as well as it did as well. The circuit board is a tiny electronic chip inside the case that transmits signals to your car, telling it to lock your doors, open the trunk and even turn off your ignition. If the circuit board has been damaged, your keyfob isn't able to transmit these signals. You can repair damaged circuit boards at home with a little technical knowledge. Begin by taking the battery off and separate the rubber button and holder assembly from the circuit board. Clean the plastic frame and contacts using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. remote key fob repair should remove any rust that's preventing the circuit board from sending signals. Once you've reassembled your key fob, check whether it's in programming mode. Check your owner's guide for instructions. The majority of car manufacturers have videos online that will show you how to do this. If you're not confident enough to do it yourself, send your key fob to a locksmith that is specialized in the model of your vehicle. Certain key fobs that are newer have a built-in receiver that allows you to open your trunk and lock the doors, as well as switch on the ignition and start your engine from some distance. They are generally more reliable and work over a wider range. If your latest key fob isn't working as well as it did in the past it could be due to an issue with the antenna or other internal problem. If you're having trouble getting your key fob to work the most likely reason is an inoperative battery. It is cheap and easy to change. If the circuit board or buttons of the fob are damaged, it will need to be professionally repaired and reset. This service is provided by the majority of dealerships, but you can find a service that is specialized in your specific car model. Forgotten Key When you've lost your car keys fob, it can be an absolute nightmare. It's possible to turn your home upside down by retracing all your steps and searching all over. This is a case of searching in drawers, bags and under couches. You'll find it eventually. The best way to ensure you don't lose your key fob is by taking precautions. If you're susceptible to forgetfulness or have a touch of ADD, make several copies and give these to your family and friends so that you won't be sweating and cursing for four hours if you lose your key fob. Most cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your doors. You can also, in some cases, set off the alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more advanced models have even more exciting features, such as the ability to summon your car by pressing a button. This feature isn't included in all models however if you own one of the cars that do it (Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata are two examples) it's an awesome feature to have. The good thing is that if you have an extra key fob that's programmed to your vehicle, then you can use it to start your vehicle in the event you lose your original. You can also reach out to an automotive locksmith to have them create the new key fob which has was programmed to your specific vehicle. However, before doing this make contact with your dealer to see if they can offer the replacement key fob for you at a cheaper cost. If you don't have a spare key the only way to get your car started is by calling an auto locksmith to come out and cut a new one or replace your current key fob with an empty. A dealer can also do this, but you'll need to get your car towed and some documents to prove ownership. These services are fairly inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of replacing a key at your dealer.