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TheKeyLab – How to Get Back on the Road Even If Your Keyless Entry isn't Working Key fobs can experience problems over time, such as the loss of functionality. Certain issues may require professional attention, however many can be fixed at home. The battery replacement is usually the first step. Most fobs use flat watches that are readily available at auto parts stores. Dead Battery It can be an incredibly problem when the battery of a key fob dies. This is especially true when you're away from home. However, there are options to get back on the road even if your vehicle's keyless entry system isn't working. The first thing you should check is to see if the buttons on the fob are working. If they don't, the problem could be with the locks on your car. If your keys do not unlock, you might find a mechanical slot in the trim around your door handles or elsewhere in your car (consult the owner's manual). Insert the mechanical key and try again. If this doesn't work there are some cars that have an app that allows you to open doors remotely. For example the FordPass Connect app, the myChevrolet mobile app, and myMazda app permit owners to open their doors using their smartphones. These apps do charge a monthly fee for subscription. You should also make sure that your key fob isn't draining your car's battery by resting on it. A dead fob can quickly drain your battery, especially when you utilize its remote functions while watching TV or talking on the phone. A key fob that's low on battery may be activated by holding it right up to the start button. It's a simple fix that will save you a trip to the dealership or select Interstate All Battery Center locations. If your key fob does not work try testing it in a vehicle with a push-button starter. If it doesn't work the battery of the fob needs replacement. It's a good idea to keep a spare key fob in your purse or backpack. Damaged Buttons It is possible that your key fob is damaged and has a button. Your key fob likely contains an electronic circuit board that has “contact pads” for each button, and these tiny pads are covered with an electrically conducting film which wears down over time. This wear could cause your device to respond more slowly, or even not respond at all. The good news is that the contact pad on the car key fob can be replaced easily, and it can be done with the help of a flathead screwdriver. If the case is damaged or badly smashed it may be difficult to open. It is necessary to take it to an auto repair shop to have the fob repaired. It's not uncommon for keys to be dropped on hard surfaces, tripped on or exposed to water. These events can cause physical damage to keys, such as bending or snapping them. This can also cause internal damage to the fob, which could result in malfunction. It's a good idea that's why you should always carry an extra fob in your purse or in your pocket in case the one you're using is damaged. Examine the battery first to determine If your key fob's buttons aren't responding in the way they should. Keep in mind that key fobs aren't any special kind of electronic device – the majority of them use the same batteries for two dollars that are used in watches and hearing aids and are accessible at drug stores, hardware stores, and even online. If the battery is functioning properly the buttons could be worn or dirty. You can easily clean them with a damp cloth. If they're still not responding, you can try a different key fob to determine if the issue is with yours or with a particular type of car key fob. If the other key fob works, then yours may need to be reprogrammed or replaced. Reprogramming The world of car keys fobs is much more complex than the myths that surround it suggest. The basic fobs function on unique radio frequency signals that are assigned to specific cars. The fobs must be properly programmed to unlock and start the vehicle. Reprogramming a key fob is not as simple as pressing several keys. It's usually handled by the dealer. The process of reprogramming a fob is based on the model and model year of the car you own It is therefore essential to read the owner's manual to get step-by-step instructions. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes have proprietary technology that only the dealership is capable of creating a new key fob and resync it to your vehicle. However, some independent shops can offer this service as well so make sure to check reviews and prices before selecting a shop. Certain models of cars will erase all other fobs when they're reprogrammed, which means you'll need to get any additional fobs professionally programmed as well. This is a costly proposition especially if you're only down to just one working fob. It's always recommended to have a backup mechanical key that you can use to open the doors and trunk even if it's not able to start the car. Be prepared for a difficult experience if you decide to reprogram your fob yourself. There are many guides online that promise to work however, you're likely to be disappointed. A majority of these guides were written by individuals with no experience and are based on unsubstantiated assertions. Some of them even state that you can program your own car key fob in only a few clicks, which can be very misleading. The battery is usually held in place by an elastic clip that can be removed easily. However the circuit board houses the battery, and you'll need to remove the battery using a tool. Once you've got inside, you should be able locate the button cell battery which is typically a small watch battery that can be found at a variety of pharmacies or home improvement stores. It's typically easy to replace the battery. Before replacing the whole device, you should try it first. Replacement If the car key fob has been damaged or fails to function, it's important to know that there are several options to fix the issue. It may be possible to repair the issue quickly by replacing the battery or programming your key fob. However, a more extensive repair may be required. It can also be helpful to have a spare key fob in case one gets lost or stolen. Most modern key fobs contain an incredibly small physical key, in addition to the electronic components they use, which makes them both more expensive and more complex to replace than traditional keys. Certain “smart” fobs also come with a remote starter. Therefore, it's important to understand that it could take up to an hour to have an alternative key fob cut and programmed to your vehicle. Fobs use a small radio transmitter that is mounted on a circuit board to communicate with the car's receiver. Pressing a button activates the transmitter, which transmits an RF signal that is unique to the car's receiver. The receiver recognizes and compares the signal to preprogrammed codes. This allows drivers to start the car from a distance, without the need to put the key in the ignition. If the buttons on your key fob do not respond or function intermittently it could indicate that they have been damaged by water or other factors. It is possible to repair the fob by disassembling it and looking for any damaged or non-responsive buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, you can try reprogramming or buying an entirely new fob. Before buying a replacement key fob online, contact a professional locksmith or your local auto dealer to confirm that it is compatible with the security system of your vehicle. Aftermarket fobs can be cheaper, but you should look into the reviews and brands before trying to program them yourself. Certain fobs can be modified by a locksmith who is reputable however, other models require programming equipment that only a car technician or dealer is able to utilize.