Key fob not communicating with car (accessory around key slot)

I can't start my 2006 Smart Car. I have two key fobs, both with good batteries, and I changed one as an extra. Normally, if the door is unlocked and the car is off for a while the ignition locks as shown by a lock icon when one tries to start the car. To unlock the ignition, the unlock door button on the key fob needs to be pressed. The car was left unlocked. Went to start the car today and pressing all the buttons on both key fobs had no affect. It's as if both key fobs had dead batteries. Dealer advises there are no workarounds from having the car towed the 50+ km to them. Any suggestions?