Repair Car Key: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly How to Repair a Car Key Fob

You key fob is likely to be tossed around a lot. This can cause the buttons to get stuck or damaged. Try giving it a once-over and then swapping the battery if you need to.

Most cars use batteries that look like coins. You can buy at pharmacies or big box stores as well as home improvement retailers. However certain models require specialized programming equipment that dealers only have.

Dead Battery

The car key fob can make it easier to start your vehicle, and get into it. What happens when you press the button multiple times, but nothing happens? It's usually due to an inactive or dying battery. The battery can be replaced easily. You can find replacements at auto parts stores, supermarkets, and some home improvement centers.

However there are other features that the key fob has may not work. This could be due to a mechanical problem or an electrical issue inside the car or even a deprogramming error in the car's receiver. In these cases, you should probably call a professional.

Thankfully, most manufacturers still have a key slot that is mechanical inside the fob, which can be used in case of a dead battery. In most instances, a cover is attached to the handle of the fob to conceal the key slot. You can insert your physical key into the slot to unlock your doors and then start your vehicle. Make sure to insert the key fob back into the slot after you have started your car.

If car keys repairs near me own a Ford with SYNC Connect you can also start the car by using the key fob. The cupholder in the majority of Fords equipped with SYNC Connect has a backup "E blade". This key is used to press the starter button if the key fob you have is not able to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, make sure the battery is fully charged. You can also consult your owner's manual for instructions on the best way to use it.

If your car is still having problems after replacing the battery on your key fob, you might need to call an authorized locksmith or dealer to get the battery or fob repaired. In certain cases the key fob can be programmed to your car with a new battery at the dealership or at select Interstate All Battery Center locations. However, this can only be done when the circuit board and antennas have not been damaged.

Damaged Buttons

Over the course of time the car key fob's buttons are likely to see many wear and wear and tear. They are susceptible to dropping and also spend a lot of time being carried around in pockets and purses. The jolting could cause the internal components to loosen or become damaged, leading to them not responding when you press them. This issue can be resolved by following a few steps, but you might require the assistance of a locksmith.

In addition to a dead battery, the most common reason a car key fob won't work is that it requires new batteries. These little coins-shaped batteries are fairly inexpensive, and it's not difficult to find them in hardware stores or large-box retailers. You can also find videos on how to replace the battery in your key fob on YouTube or in your owner's guide.

It's important to remember that some keyfobs need a specific procedure to enter the appropriate programming mode to change the batteries. In these instances you'll need consult the owner's guide and/or an auto locksmith to ensure you are following the correct procedure.

Leaving your key fob in extreme hot or cold temperatures could cause it to cease working, especially when the battery has failed. If this happens, you will have to call an automotive locksmith or dealer for a new fob.

If your key fob's buttons remain unresponsive, it could be that 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 problem by taking apart the key fob and putting an aluminum strip over the worn out contacts.

It is important to know that certain key fobs can be difficult to open and can't be opened safely without specialized tools that are only available at a dealership. If you try to open it with an instrument like a screwdriver or other it's likely that you'll damage the internal circuit board and end up with an expense for repairs that is higher than you would have required.

car keys repairs near me Issues

The circuit board could be the cause of your key fob not functioning in the same way it used to. The circuit board is an electronic chip that's in the case. It transmits signals to the car telling it if you wish to close the doors, lock the trunk or shut off the ignition. If the circuit board has been damaged, your keyfob isn't able to transmit these signals.


If you're a tech expert, you can repair damaged circuit boards yourself. Begin by taking the battery off and separating the holder and rubber button assembly from the circuit board. Make use of a cotton swab or some rubbing alcohol to clean around the contacts and the plastic frame. This should eliminate any corrosion that has stopped the circuit board from transmitting signals.

After you've assembled the key fob, ensure that it can enter its programming mode. Go through the owner's manual to find instructions. Many car manufacturers have videos online that demonstrate how to accomplish this. If you're not confident enough to do it yourself, take your key fob to a locksmith that is trained to work on the specific model of your vehicle.

Certain key fobs that are newer have an integrated receiver that lets you to open your trunk and lock the doors, as well as turn on your ignition and start your engine from a distance. These are generally more reliable and operate across a wider area. If your key fob doesn't work as well as it did in the past it could be due to an internal issue that isn't working or a faulty external antenna.

The most likely cause for the key fob not working is a dead or low battery. It is cheap and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons on the fob are damaged, it will require professional repair and programmed again. This service is offered by many dealerships, however you can find a shop specializing in your car brand.

Forgotten Key

When you've lost your car keys fob, it could be a nightmare. It's possible to turn your home upside down by retracing all your steps and looking everywhere. This is a case of searching in drawers, bags and under couches. You'll find it eventually. Prevention is the best method to avoid losing your key fob. If you've got even a little ADD or just forgetful, make several copies and give them to close friends and family members, so that when you lose yours, you don't spend 4 hours covered in sweat and blaming yourself for the rest of your life.

Most cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock your doors. They also in some cases set off an alarm or open the trunk. Some of the more sophisticated models offer even cooler features, such as the ability to summon your car using the button. This feature isn't available on all models, but if your car is one of those that can do it - like the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for example - then you're in good hands.

If you have a spare car key fob programmed for your vehicle, you can use it in the event you lose the original. You can also get in touch with an automotive locksmith to make a key fob that is specifically programmed for your vehicle. However, before doing this, check with your dealership to see if they can provide a replacement key fob at a cheaper cost.

If car key remote repair near me don't have a spare alternative to start your vehicle is to contact an auto locksmith who will replace the key fob you have or create an entirely new one. A dealer can also do this, but you'll need to get your car towed and provide proof of ownership papers. These services are relatively inexpensive particularly when compared to the cost of replacing a key at your dealership.