This Week's Most Popular Stories About Repair Car Key

How to Repair a Car Key Fob Your key fob gets jostled around a lot, so the buttons may get stuck or broken. If you need to, give it a thorough cleaning and replace the battery. The majority of cars have the coin-style battery that you can buy at big box stores as well as home improvement stores and pharmacies. However, some models require special programming equipment that dealers only have. Dead Battery The car key fob makes it easy to start your vehicle, and then get it started. But what happens if you press the button a few times, and your car isn't responding? This usually happens due to a dead or dying battery. The battery can be replaced easily. You can get replacements in supermarkets and auto parts stores and also at some home improvement stores. Other features available through the key fob may not work. This could be because of an issue with the mechanical system, an internal electrical issue or even a deprogramming error in the car's receiver. In these situations, it's probably best to contact an expert. Thankfully, the majority of manufacturers include a key slot made of mechanical inside the fob, which can be used in case of an inoperative battery. Most of the time the key slot is hidden behind a cover that is attached to the fob handle. You can insert your physical key into the slot to open your doors and then start your vehicle. Be sure to re-insert the key fob when you start your vehicle! If you happen to have a Ford car with SYNC Connect, there's a way you can start the car without using the key fob. The majority of SYNC Connect equipped Ford vehicles have an additional “E-blade” within the cupholder. This key is used to press the starter button in the event that your key fob isn't able to start the vehicle. To make the most of this feature, make sure that the car battery is charged and that you read your owner's manual to find out what the procedure is. If you're having problems with your car after changing the battery in your key fob It could be the right the right time to contact an expert locksmith or your dealer to have the battery replaced or to repair the fob. In some instances, a new battery can be used to program the key fob with your car at the dealership or choose Interstate All Battery Center stores. However, this can only be done if the circuit board and antennas aren't damaged. Damaged Buttons The buttons on your car key fob are bound to endure an extensive amount of wear and wear and tear throughout their lives. They are susceptible to being dropped and are often sat in purses and pockets. This can cause internal components to become damaged or loose, which could cause them to not respond to your press. This issue can be resolved with a few easy steps, but you might be required to speak with a locksmith. Aside from a dead battery, the most common reason why a key fob for a car won't work is that it needs new batteries. These tiny coin-shaped batteries are relatively inexpensive, and it's not difficult to find them at hardware stores or big-box retailers. You can also find videos explaining how to replace the battery in your key fob on YouTube or in the owner's manual. It is important to know that some keyfobs need a specific procedure to enter the required programming mode for changing the batteries. In these instances you'll have to consult the owner's manual as well as an authorized auto locksmith to ensure that you're following the correct procedure. If you leave your key fob in extreme cold or hot temperatures can cause it to stop working in particular in the event that the battery has gone out. If this happens, you'll need to contact an automotive locksmith or dealer for a new 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 try to repair this by taking the key fob apart and putting a piece of metallic tape over the worn out contacts. It is important to know that some key fobs can be extremely difficult to open. They can only be opened safely by using specialized equipment that is available from a dealership. If you attempt to open yours with an instrument like a screwdriver or other it's possible to break the internal circuit board and incur a more expensive repair bill than you required. Circuit Board Issues The circuit board could be the reason for your key fob not working as well as it used to. The circuit board is a small electronic chip in the case. It transmits signals to your car telling it whether or not to lock your doors, open the trunk, and even switch off your ignition. If the circuit board is damaged, your key fob won't be able to send these signals. If you're a tech expert you can fix damaged circuit boards yourself. Begin by removing the battery and taking the holder and rubber button assembly from the circuit board. Use a cotton swab and some rubbing alcohol to clean around the contacts and plastic frame. This should remove any rust that's preventing the circuit board from sending signals. Then, once you've reassembled the key fob, be sure it can enter its programming mode. Usually this involves turning it on and off several times, so be sure to consult your owner's manual to find specific instructions. The majority of car manufacturers have videos online that show you how to accomplish this. If you're not sure how to do it, you can bring your key fob to an expert locksmith who is knowledgeable about the model of your vehicle. Certain key fobs that are newer have a built-in receiver that enables you to unlock your trunk and open the doors, as well as turn on your ignition and start the engine from an extended distance. They are generally more reliable and work over a wider range. If your newer key fob isn't working as well as it used to it could be due to an issue with the antenna or other internal problem. If you're having trouble getting your key fob working The most likely cause is a dead battery. It's affordable and easy to replace. If the circuit board or buttons on the fob are damaged, it will require professional repair and reset. Many dealerships offer this service, but you can also locate a shop that is specialized in the brand of your car. Forgotten repair car keys If you've lost your car key fob, it can be an absolute nightmare. It's possible to turn your home upside down by retracing all your steps and searching everywhere. This includes in bags, drawers and under couches. You'll eventually find it. Preventative measures are the best method to avoid losing your key fob. If you are prone to forgetfulness or even a touch of ADD Make several copies and distribute them to your family and acquaintances so that you don't be shivering and wailing for four hours should you lose your key fob. Many cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the doors, and in some cases activate the alarm system or open the trunk. Some of the more advanced models offer even cooler features like the ability summon your car by pressing the button. This feature is not available on all models however if your car is one of the models that can do it – the Genesis GV60 or Hyundai Sonata for instance – then you're in luck. The good thing is that if you have an extra key fob that's programmed to your car then you can use it to start your vehicle in the event you lose the original. You can also contact an automotive locksmith to make a key fob that is programmed for your vehicle. Check with your dealer to find out whether a replacement keyfob might be available at a lower cost. If you don't own an extra, the only way to start your car is to call an auto locksmith who will either replace your current key fob or make an entirely new one. Dealers can also do this but they will need your car to be towed and a proof of ownership. But the good news is that these services are fairly affordable, particularly when compared with purchasing a new key from your dealer that can cost between $200 and $250.