Warning signs that your smart key fob is failing include:
- Intermittent unlocking or locking of doors
- Failure to start the vehicle, even with a new battery
- Reduced range when using the remote functions
- The vehicle not recognizing the key fob inside the car
- Error messages on the dashboard related to key fob detection
To test if the smart key fob is the problem:
- Try a spare key fob, if available, to see if the issues persist.
- Replace the battery in the smart key fob with a new, known-good battery.
- Check the vehicle's battery voltage. A low vehicle battery can sometimes cause key fob issues.
- If possible, have a professional use a diagnostic tool to check for error codes related to the keyless entry system.
Common causes of smart key fob failure include:
- Dead or weak battery
- Physical damage from drops or exposure to moisture
- Wear and tear on the internal components
- Corrupted programming or loss of synchronization with the vehicle
- Water damage