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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, including a loss of functionality. While some issues might require professional attention, the majority can be resolved at home. The first step is generally to replace the battery. The majority of fobs are powered by flat watch-style battery, which are easily found at hardware stores or auto parts stores. Dead Battery If the battery for a key fob dies, it can be a major hassle especially if you're far from home. There are ways to get back on the road even if your car's keyless entry isn't working. One of the first things to examine is to determine if the buttons on the key fob work. If they don't it could be a problem with the locks on your car. If the keys won't unlock you need to look for a key slot with a mechanical lock located in your door handle trim or in another location on the car (consult your owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work there are some cars that have an app that can open doors remotely. FordPass Connect, myChevrolet Mobile App and myMazda apps, for example, allow owners to unlock their doors using their smartphones. These apps charge a monthly subscription fee. You should also make sure that your key fob isn't draining the car's battery by sitting on it. A dead fob will drain your battery fast especially if it's used to control your phone or TV while you're watching. Holding key repair car up to your car's start button may cause a key fob with an empty battery. It's a simple solution that could save you a trip to the dealer or to select Interstate All Battery Center locations. You can also find out if your key fob is actually dead by trying it in another vehicle that has the push-button ignition. If it fails it's likely that the battery requires replacement. It's a good idea to keep an extra key fob in your backpack or purse. Damaged Buttons If your key fob isn't able to unlock doors or start the car remotely, it's possible that one or more of its buttons have been damaged. The key fob has a circuit with “contact pads” that are covered with an electrically conductory film. The film wears away over time. The wear may cause your fob to respond less quickly, or not at all. The pad that contacts a car keyfob can be easily replaced with an flat-head screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it may be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto shop to get the fob repaired. It's not common for a key fob be dropped, trampled on or even exposed to water. All of these incidents can result in physical damage, like breaking and snapping keys. This can also cause internal damage to the fob, which could cause malfunction. This is why it's a good idea to carry a spare key fob in your purse or pocket in case you accidentally damage the one you own. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding to the extent they should, you should first check to make sure the battery is in good condition. Be aware that key fobs aren't a special kind of electronic device – the majority of them use the same two-dollar batteries used in hearing aids and watches and are accessible at hardware stores, drug stores, and even online. If the battery is fine it's likely that the buttons are just worn down or dirty and can be cleaned by using a damp cloth to clean them. If they're still not responding, try a different key fob to see whether the problem is with yours or a specific kind of car key fob. If the other fob functions, it's likely that your key fob needs to be reprogrammed or even replaced completely. Reprogramming The hidden world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. Basic fobs operate with radio frequency signals that are specific to each car. The fobs need to be correctly programmed to allow unlocking and starting the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob not as easy as pressing a few keys. It's usually handled by the dealer. Consult your owner's guide for more detailed instructions. Some manufacturers, such as Mercedes utilize proprietary technology that guarantees only the dealership can create an entirely new fob and then sync it to your vehicle. However some independent shops offer this service as well, so be sure to review reviews and prices prior to selecting the shop. Certain car models wipe out all other fobs when they're reprogrammed, which means you'll have to have any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This can be costly particularly if you're just one functional fob. Even if the mechanical key won't work to start the car, it's a good idea to have a backup option that can open the doors and trunk. If you decide to attempt to reprogram your fob on your own, be prepared for a difficult journey. You'll be disappointed by the numerous online guides that claim to be successful. A majority of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some of these guides claim that you can easily program your car key fob with just the click of a button. This is a false claim. The majority of key fobs are secured by a clip made of plastic which is easy to remove, but the battery is inside the circuit board, which means you'll need to carefully pull it out using a device. remote car key repairs should be able to find the button cell battery. It's usually tiny batteries for a watch, which is available at most home improvement or pharmacies. Replacing the battery is usually a straightforward procedure, and it's always a good idea to test first before replacing the entire device. Replacement If the car key fob has been damaged or fails to function it is important to know there are several options to remedy the problem. It is possible to resolve the issue quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However it is possible that a more extensive repair may be needed. It can also be helpful to have a spare key fob in case one is lost or stolen. Modern key fobs are more expensive and more difficult to replace since they have a physical key as well as the electronics. Some “smart fobs” even come with remote starters. It's therefore important to know that it could take up to an hour to have a new key fob cut and programmed for your vehicle. Fobs communicate with the car's receiver by using a small radio transmitter that is mounted on circuit boards. By pressing a button, the transmitter transmits an RF signal unique to the car receiver. The receiver receives the signal and verifies it against preprogrammed codes. This allows a driver to start the car from a distance, without having to put the ignition key in. If your key fob buttons aren't responding or working intermittently, they may be damaged by water. It is possible to fix the fob by removing it and examining it for broken or unresponsive buttons. If this does not solve the issue, you can try reprogramming it or purchasing an entirely new fob. You should check with an auto dealer in your area or a locksmith prior to purchasing a replacement keyfob to make sure it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper however, you must research brands and read reviews prior to trying to program them yourself. While certain fobs can be repaired by a reputable locksmith, others require special equipment to program them that can only be used by a professional auto dealer or auto technician.