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How to Repair a Car Key Fob The key fob you have is likely to be tossed around frequently. This can cause its buttons to get stuck or broken. Try giving it a thorough check and swapping out the battery if you need to. The majority of cars have batteries that look like coins. You can buy from pharmacies and big box stores, as well as home improvement stores. Some models require programming equipment that is available only to dealers. Dead Battery The car key fob is a compact and convenient device that makes getting into your vehicle and launching it much easier than ever. What happens when you press the button multiple times but nothing happens? This usually happens due to a dead or dying battery. Fortunately, the battery is easy to replace. You can get replacements in supermarkets and auto parts stores as well as home improvement stores. However there are other features that the key fob provides may not work. This could be because of a mechanical problem or an electrical problem inside the vehicle or even a deprogramming error in the car's receiver. In these instances it's best to call a professional. Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers have a key slot that is mechanical inside the fob, which can be used in the event of a dead battery. In the majority of cases, a cover will be put on the handle of the fob to hide the key slot. The key's physical form can be inserted into the slot, which allows you to unlock your door and start your car. Don't forget to insert the key fob back into the slot after you have started your vehicle. If you're lucky enough to own a Ford vehicle that is equipped with SYNC Connect, there's another way you can start the car without using the key fob. The majority of SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have an additional “E-blade” inside the cupholder. This is a key that's mechanical that can be used to push the starter button should your key fob fails to start the car. To make the most of this feature, make sure that the car battery is charged and go through the owner's manual to see what the procedure is. If you're still having issues with your car after replacing the key fob battery it could be the right time to contact a locksmith or your dealership to get the battery replaced or the fob repaired. In certain cases the key fob can be programmed to 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 circuit board and antennas aren't damaged. Damaged Buttons Through the course of its life your car key fob's buttons are bound to be subjected to a lot wear and wear and tear. They're prone to drops and are often being tossed around in pockets and purses. The jolting may cause the internal components to become loose or damaged, resulting in them not responding when you press them. Simple steps can solve this issue, but sometimes you may require taking your fob to an expert locksmith. Aside from batteries that are dead, the most common reason why a key fob for a car will not work is because it requires new batteries. These little coins-shaped batteries are fairly inexpensive and it's easy to find them in large-box stores or hardware stores. You can also find videos that explain how to replace the key fob battery on YouTube or in your owner's guide. It's important to note that certain keyfobs require a specific procedure to enter the necessary programming mode for changing the batteries. In such cases you'll have to consult the owner's manual or an auto locksmith that is reputable to ensure you're following the correct procedure. Leaving your key fob in extreme cold or hot temperatures can also cause it to stop working particularly in the event that the battery has gone out. In this case, you'll need to consult an automotive locksmith or dealer for an alternative fob. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding 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 attempt to fix this by disassembling the key fob and placing a piece of metallic tape over the worn out contacts. It's important to note that some 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 yours with a screwdriver or another tool it's likely that you'll break the circuit board inside, and incur an expense for repairs that is higher than you would have required. 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 an electronic chip within the case. It transmits signals to the car that tell it if you wish to close the doors, lock the trunk or shut off the ignition. If the circuit board is damaged the key fob won't be able to send these signals. If you're a tech expert, you can repair damaged circuit boards yourself. Start by removing the battery and separating the rubber button and holder assembly from the circuit board. Use a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol to scrub around the contacts and plastic frame. car key repair cost should remove any corrosion that is inhibiting the circuit board from transmitting signals. After you've assembled your key fob, make sure that it can enter the programming mode. Check your owner's guide for instructions. A lot of car manufacturers have online videos that explain how to do it. If you're not confident enough to complete it yourself, you can send your key fob to a locksmith that is specialized in the model of your vehicle. Certain of the latest key fobs come with a receiver built in that lets you open your trunk, lock your doors and turn on your ignition from an extended distance. In general, they are more reliable and work across a wider range. If your key fob does not work as far as it used too it could be due to an internal problem that's not working properly or an external antenna that is not working properly. If you're unable to get your key fob to work The most likely cause is a dead battery. It's affordable and easy to replace. If the fob's buttons or circuit board are damaged, you'll need be able to have it repaired professionally and reprogrammed. The majority of dealerships provide this service however, you can locate a shop that is specialized in the brand of your car. Forgotten Key It's a nightmare when you lose your car key fob. You can turn your home upside down retracing your steps and searching all over, including in drawers, bags or under couches, and even your cat's bed. Eventually, you'll find it. But the best way to avoid losing your key fob is by taking precautions. If you're prone to forgetfulness or have a slight hint 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. A lot of cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and in certain cases activate the alarm system or open the trunk. Some of the more sophisticated models offer even cooler features, such as the ability to summon your car by pressing a button. This feature isn't available in all models, but if you have one of the cars that can do it (Genesis GV60 and Hyundai Sonata are two examples) it's an awesome feature to have. If you have a spare car key fob, which has been 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 the key fob programmed to your vehicle. Check with your dealer to see whether a replacement keyfob might be available at a lower price. If you don't have a spare key the only method to get your car started is to contact an auto locksmith to come out and make a new key or replace the current key fob with blank. A dealer can also do this however, you'll need bring your vehicle in and provide proof of ownership papers. The good thing is that these services are inexpensive, especially compared to purchasing a new key from your dealer that can cost between $200 and $250.