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Cold Weather Can Disrupt Car Key Fobs, Experts Advise
Experts offer tips to get your key fob working again in cold temperatures.
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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As cold weather hits, car owners may find their key fobs are not functioning properly. Experts say the cold can disrupt the electronic signals from the fob to the car, causing issues with locking, unlocking, and remote starting. They provide guidance on troubleshooting and caring for key fobs in frigid conditions.
Why it matters
Key fobs have become an essential part of modern vehicle operation, allowing drivers convenient access and remote features. Understanding how cold weather can impact these devices is important for maintaining vehicle functionality during the winter months.
The details
The cold weather can affect the battery in the key fob, causing it to drain faster and disrupting the radio frequency (RF) signal sent to the car. Experts recommend keeping the fob close to your body to warm it up, replacing the battery if it's old, and using the physical key to unlock the door if the fob isn't working.
- As cold weather hits the region in the winter months.
The players
Experts
Automotive industry professionals who provide guidance on maintaining and troubleshooting vehicle key fobs.
What they’re saying
“The cold weather can affect the battery in the key fob, causing it to drain faster and disrupting the radio frequency (RF) signal sent to the car.”
— Experts (greenwichtime.com)
What’s next
Drivers should keep an eye on their key fob performance as temperatures drop and be prepared to use the physical key or replace the battery if issues arise.
The takeaway
Understanding how cold weather can impact key fobs is important for maintaining vehicle access and functionality during the winter months. Following experts' advice can help drivers troubleshoot and care for their key fobs in frigid conditions.
