Any new technology requires some time to get used to similarly, the manual key is now replaced by a key fob. A key fob is a small device that provides access to physical objects. In the automotive industry, a key fob is nowadays mainly a small device with buttons that unlock/lock the vehicle’s doors.
A key fob is the main device used in keyless entry systems. It is a replacement for the mainstream lock and key that is safer and a better option. But if it doesn’t work due to some errors, you start to wonder what was the need to use a new option and start cursing the evolving technology. Wondering Why my car won’t detect my key fob.
Let’s understand the real reason for this issue and what should you do if your car won’t detect the key fob.
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What If My Car Won’t Detect My Key Fob?
The reasons that will make your car not detecting the key fob are as follows:
1. Battery Inside The Remote Is Dead
The battery inside the key fob’s remote might be dead after using a period of time. This may cause the dashboard not to get any signal, and thereby causing the car not to detect the key fob.
2. The Remote Is Broken
The remote of your car key fob is broken or damaged then it will not connect your key fob to the car, and your car won’t open with the signal of your remote.
3. The Battery Of Your Car Is Low
If your car’s battery is low, then your car won’t be able to receive the signals from the key and then you will see that your car is not detecting the car’s key.
4. The Keyless Operation System Is Faulty
Whenever the operating system in your keyless fob is damaged then the detection is disabled in the car.
What About Theft Protection?
One of the worries behind cars with built-in key fob mechanisms is that thieves will steal your car away while your key is safely inside your house.
But as keyless entry systems are built to function when the key is centimeters away rather than meters, keyless cars also have security systems in place to stop your vehicle from traveling far if it notices the key isn’t in the car. However, if your car is broken into using a device to fool the car, there are often theft protection systems in place to shut down the car if it believes that someone is trying to break in.
What If My Car Won’t Detect My Key Fob?
If your key’s battery is the reason for the key not working you simply have to replace it, To access the battery you have to first open the battery cover using a small screwdriver and then analyze the old and damaged battery then take a battery with the same numbers and replace the old one with a newbie. But if your remote is damaged then, you have to call the repair center and check whether they have the remote for your car’s door. Till then you can use a manual key if your car allows both the options.
If the battery of your car is low, there could be a number of reasons for that to happen:
- Leaving headlights, interior lights, flashers, and the radio on when the car isn’t running
- Not starting a car for long periods of time or keeping it in storage for a long time.
- Lack of battery maintenance (e.g., not keeping terminals clean)
- Low air temperature, which causes batteries to freeze
- Failing diode bridge or voltage regulator in the alternator
- Using the air conditioner when the car is not running
There is a possibility that you can start your battery by yourself with the use of the jump-starting technique. To safely jump-start a car you need a jumper cable, it is good to have a jumper cable in your car if you don’t have it you might need someone who is ready to help. Place both vehicles in the park or neutral and shut off the ignition in both cars. Attach one of the red clips to the positive terminal of your battery. Attach one of the black clips to the negative terminal on the other battery. Attach the last black clip to an unpainted metal surface on your car that isn’t near the battery. Use one of the metal struts that holds the bonnet open. Now, try to start your vehicle. If the car won’t start still, the battery isn’t holding the charge which needs to replaced.
Clean the exterior of the unit. Use a dry, soft cloth or a cotton swab to trace the outline of any buttons on your remote. This may remove dirt or dust that prevents a button from being fully engaged. The may lead to your key operation working efficiently, If not then try to reprogram your keyless entry system. The exact steps for reprogramming may vary from brand to brand and model to model, so consult your user’s manual first.
Average Cost To Replace The Battery Of Your Car
A typical car battery costs between $50 and $120, while premium batteries cost $90 to $200. Service providers say the average battery cost runs in the $75 to $120 range. Several factors affect the cost, such as battery type. There are about 40 types available, so the cost can vary a lot according to the model of your car.
Conclusion
Now, you know the answer to your question, what if my car won’t detect my key fob and how much does it cost to replace it with a better one if it’s just your battery that is causing the problems.
If you are facing some other difficulty write that down below in the comment section, we will try to reach out to you soon with the solutions to your query.