Your car key fob is an essential tool, but what if it stops working unexpectedly?
If you’re out running errands and your key fob dies, how do you get into your car or start it?
Fortunately, there are straightforward solutions to this problem.
Knowing what to do can save you a lot of frustration and time.
Imagine your key fob battery is dead, and you don’t have a spare on hand.
There’s no need to worry – you can still unlock and start your vehicle.
Most modern cars are designed to operate even if the key fob battery is completely drained.
While the exact steps can vary by car model, here are some common techniques that can help.
First, you need to access your car.
Most key fobs include a hidden mechanical key.
Look for a small sliding button on the back of the fob.
Slide or press this button to remove the cover.
You may need to use a bit of force to get it to release.
This mechanical key will be your way into the car.
Once you have the mechanical key, you can use it to unlock the door.
If you don’t see a key slot, it might be hidden behind the door handle cover.
Use the key to gently remove the cover and expose the slot.
This might seem like an extra step, but it’s a simple solution when your key fob is dead.
Once you’re inside the car, here’s how to start it.
Reinsert the mechanical key into the key fob and close it.
Instead of pressing the START button with your finger, use the key fob itself to push the button.
This method works because many manufacturers include a backup system for starting the car when the fob’s battery is dead.
Some vehicles have a hidden slot for the key fob.
For instance, some Ford models have a slot inside the cup holder designed to fit the key fob.
Insert the dead fob into this slot and start the car as you normally would.
It’s a clever design to ensure you’re never stranded.
If these methods don’t work, check for a physical key slot in the steering column.
Some Mazda models, for example, have this feature.
Insert the mechanical key into this slot to start the car.
Knowing your car’s specific features can be very helpful in these situations.
If you’re still concerned about being stranded with a dead key fob, consider these additional options for accessing your car.
Use your car’s app.
Many cars now offer apps that allow you to unlock your car from your phone.
This feature, once limited to luxury vehicles, is now widely available.
If the key fob’s battery is low rather than completely dead, moving closer to the car might help.
Press the key fob directly against the door handle and try unlocking the car.
Call roadside assistance if all else fails.
Make sure your insurance covers roadside assistance and save the contact number on your phone.
It’s also a good idea to keep a written copy of this number in your purse or wallet in case your phone is locked in the car or its battery is dead.
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