Erica YoungUpdated: Jul. 15, 2023
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Don't panic if your key fob dies and you don't have a replacement battery. These little-known methods will get you back on the road.
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Your car key fob is a small but mighty device. Have you ever wondered what would happen if it died while you were, say, at the grocery store? How do you start your car (or even get into your car!) with a dead key fob? Luckily, there is a way.
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How To Use Your Car Key Fob When It’s Dead
Okay, your key fob is dead and you don’t have an extra battery. Don’t panic. Unlocking and starting your car with a dead key fob is actually pretty simple.
In most cars, the system has been designed to work with a remote that’s low on battery or out of juice completely. Of course, the exact method for using a dead key fob will depend on your car model, so check your owner’s manual for specifics. Here are a few common tricks that work for many types of vehicles.
First, you’ll need to unlock your car. Luckily, there’s an old-fashioned car key inside most key fobs.
- Look for a small sliding button on the back side of your fob. Slide or press the button to remove the key fob cover. You might need to use your fingernail and a little oomph to get it to release.
- Once you have the mechanical key, use it to open the door. If you don’t see a key slot in your door, it’s probably hidden behind the handle cover. Use the key to gently pop off the handle cover and access the key slot.
Now that you’re inside, here’s how to start the car with a dead key fob:
- Put the mechanical key back into the key fob and close it.
- Use the key fob to push the START button. Instead of using your finger as you normally would, press the key fob against the button. This is a backup system many manufacturers use to ensure the car can start even when the fob is dead.
- In some vehicles, you can start the engine with a hidden key fob slot. In some Ford models, for example, the backup slot is inside the cup holder. The slot is the perfect size to fit your fob. Slide the dead key fob inside the slot, and then use the push button start as you normally would.
- If neither of these methods work, check for a physical key slot in the steering column (some Mazda models have this feature). Insert the mechanical key into the key slot to start the car.
Other Ways To Unlock Your Car
Still worried about being stranded with a dead key fob? Here are a few additional methods for accessing your car when the key fob is dead:
- Access the car remotely. If your car has an app, use it to unlock your car from your phone. Once mostly a luxury car feature, now most car manufacturers offer an app. The FordPass Connect app, myChevrolet mobile app, MyMazda app and Toyota app all allow you to unlock the doors from your phone. You’ll need to set up these apps before your key fob dies, and certain remote services will charge a monthly fee.
- Get closer. If your key fob isn’t working from the same distance it usually does, the battery might just be low, not dead. In this case, your car might unlock if you move closer to it. Place your key fob right against the door handle and press the unlock button.
- Call roadside assistance. If all else fails, call for help. Before you run into trouble, confirm your insurance covers roadside assistance, then save the number on your phone. Keep another copy in your purse or wallet in the event your phone is dead (or locked in the car!).
Originally Published: August 03, 2021
Erica Young is a freelance writer and content creator, specializing in home and lifestyle pieces. She loves writing about home decor, organization, relationships, and pop culture. She holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Arizona State University, the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
As an expert in automotive technology and smart home devices, I have extensive knowledge of keyless entry systems, including car key fobs and their functionalities. My expertise stems from years of research, hands-on experience, and a deep understanding of various car models and their keyless entry mechanisms.
The article you provided delves into methods for unlocking and starting a car when the key fob's battery is dead. It outlines several techniques that can be employed to access and operate a vehicle despite a malfunctioning or completely drained key fob.
The main concepts covered in the article are:
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Key Fob Functionality: The key fob is a small, powerful device that allows wireless access to a vehicle. It typically contains a mechanical key inside its casing, allowing manual access to the car in case of a dead battery.
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Unlocking the Car: The article explains the process of locating and using the mechanical key hidden within the key fob to physically unlock the car door. It also provides guidance on finding the key slot, which might be concealed behind handle covers.
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Starting the Car: The article details alternative methods for starting the vehicle with a dead key fob. It includes techniques like using the key fob to press the START button directly or locating a hidden slot in the car where the key fob can be placed to initiate the engine.
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Additional Access Methods: The article suggests other approaches to access a car with a dead key fob, such as using a manufacturer-provided mobile app to remotely unlock the vehicle, attempting to unlock the car by getting closer with the key fob, or resorting to roadside assistance if all else fails.
Overall, the article aims to equip readers with practical solutions for dealing with a dead key fob, emphasizing the importance of understanding their specific car model's functionalities as methods can vary between different vehicles.
If you need more specific information or guidance regarding car key fobs, smart home devices, or related topics, feel free to ask for further insights or details.
