If they fail, the high-tech keys for cars could be expensive to replace. Try a few quick solutions before buying an alternative.
Dealerships are your best bet for replacing the key fob with modern features, like those which control trunk release and remote engine start. Locksmiths may be able to complete the task for less.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is one of the most frequent causes for a keyfob to stop functioning. This can happen at any moment, often when you are least expecting it and your car is needed to get to work. It's not that difficult to repair a dead battery on the key fob, however you'll need some basic knowledge of how these devices operate and the tools required to open them.
A dead battery on a key fob may be difficult to determine because the majority of modern key fobs do not have any sort of LED light that indicates when they're activated. If you notice any errors or issues on your key fob it's the most effective method to determine if the battery is low or dead.
If you notice that your key fob begins to take longer and longer to unlock or lock it is a sign that the battery is failing. This could also cause delays in the beginning of your vehicle which can be a hassle.
You may also notice that your key fob's range is less of a range than it normally does. This is an indication that your battery is depleted and no longer transmitting strong signals to your car's sensor.
Some modern key fobs come with the capability of releasing keys that are physically contained within them if the key remote is lost. This key is typically stored in the fob, and you'll need to consult the owner's manual for specific information about how to find it. If you own a vehicle with this feature, then you must always keep an extra key fob along with the necessary tool in the glove box or in the center console in case of emergency.
You can replace the battery for your key fob yourself by following the steps found in your vehicle's owner's manual, or on YouTube. These batteries typically cost priced at less than $10 at big-box retailers, and on the internet and online, so it shouldn't cost too expensive to make this easy repair yourself. Make sure you install the new battery in the same manner as you removed the old one or it won't work properly.
Stuck Buttons
As with all electronic devices keys for cars will eventually cease to function. This is because of the natural accumulation of oil, dirt, and other pollutants on our hands and in our environment. Fortunately, most of the times this is a straightforward fix you can do yourself. Most of the time, a little cleaning with ruby alcohol and a couple of clicks is all it takes.
Make sure your device is not plugged in. Make use of a cotton swab, and some rubbing alcohol to wash the button, as well as the area surrounding it. You should aim to get into all the crevices. After cleaning the buttons and other areas Give them some clicks to help remove any dirt that has built up.
Next, you'll want to make use of a can of compressed air to blow away any remaining gunk. But be careful not to blow dirt into the key fob. It would be a good idea to use a smaller container of compressed air, like the kind you'll find in your cleaning items. This is enough to unblock the button from its bind.
If you've tried all of the above and the buttons still aren't responding, it may be time to call the professionals. Fortunately, many Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment needed to cut and program replacement car key fobs. You'll need to have the year, make and MODEL of your vehicle on hand to determine the type of transponder chip that your key has.
If you're not comfortable trying to fix your key fob by yourself you can go to any AutoZone location and ask an associate to fix it for you. They'll require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of the vehicle in order to programme the new key to the right vehicle. This service is fast and simple, making it an ideal choice for those who need to purchase the new car key fob in the last minute.
Reprogramming
Many people have difficulty to reprogram their car key fobs. This is mainly due to the fact that different cars have unique programming sequences. Certain models require specialized equipment for access and entry, whereas others require button presses and key-cylinder cycles to complete.
A locksmith is the ideal person to call to reprogram a car keyfob. A locksmith can provide key-cutting and replacement parts, and programming services to make your new keys operational and running swiftly and accurately. This will save you time and money as you do not have to purchase and reprogramme new set of keys.
Before you attempt to reprogram your key fob it's a good idea to check the batteries first. If the battery is empty replacing it will increase your chances of success. It is also recommended to consider keeping an extra key fob in to be on hand in case.
In addition to having an extra key fob, you must ensure that you have all the necessary tools at hand. These tools include a screwdriver, a pair of tweezers or needle-nose pliers and a key. The tools will allow you to access the internal circuit board and take the fob from the casing without damaging the board or making it unusable.
Once you've got all your tools together and you're ready to begin the reprogramming process. In general you'll begin by entering your vehicle on the driver's side and closing all the doors EXCEPT the driver's door. It is also recommended to close any other electronic fobs you want to program. Press the lock button several times on the keyfob you want to program. remote key fob repair will cause a "lock sound" and signal that you've entered programming mode. Press the lock button a second time within five seconds and you'll be finished with the reprogramming process.
The above steps should be able to work with the majority of cars. However, there are a few that will require a more detailed understanding of your car's onboard programming system. If you own a car manufactured after 2010 or by a luxury brand, the process is much more complex and requires the use of special hardware.
Replacement
If your car's key fob doesn't work It could be time to replace it. While a new one can be costly, it's the safest and simplest alternative if the old one isn't working.
You can usually find replacement key fobs in car parts stores, some hardware stores, and even some big-box retailers. You can also find them on the internet or in specialist auto stores. If you want to save money, though you could try opening the fob by yourself and then replacing the battery yourself. Most of the time, all that is required is a small screwdriver that has a flat blade to open the fob's casing and replace the battery. Then, you can reassemble your fob's key and then test the buttons to make sure they are functioning properly.
It's important that you have an extra key fob to your vehicle, as it can be a pain when yours stops working. Luckily, most times, when your car fob doesn't function, it's not because of an issue that is serious and can be fixed by replacing the battery or by reprogramming it. In some cases the fob might require replacement completely.
Keep your key fob in good condition. Over time, dust will accumulate inside a car key fob's remote, and block up its circuitry. This could cause the button to become stuck or not respond to signals from your car's key.
Some fobs can be cleaned with water or even a mild cleaner. It's best to leave the task of cleaning the car keyfob to professionals who specialize in this type of repair. If you're not sure then you can refer to your owner's manual or the Internet for instructions on how to clean your key fob.
If you've lost your key fob and can't seem to find it, you might need to call your dealership to have a spare key programmed. This is because certain car dealerships have special machines that can reprogram the chip in the key fob when it's been replaced. While this could be a costly solution however, it's the only solution to get you back on the road.
