Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can become stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how often they are jostled.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are simple to solve. Some key fob issues are more serious, and require professional assistance. This is when a locksmith can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart However, that doesn't mean they won't sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. It's not a solution because it could be due to an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they usually include a spare key mechanical inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for further details). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob and access a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.
It is also necessary to be closer to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which appears to be like tiny silver coins) for your fob, and follow the user's guideline or video instructions on how to remove the old one. Replace the battery in the same direction as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to make sure that the battery was installed correctly.
Some key fobs are difficult to open, but you should be able to open them by finding the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and then tearing it apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to harm it! If you're not confident in doing this yourself it's also possible to send your fob to a professional. Since it's a routine service the majority of auto shops will replace the battery in a fob for a nominal cost. Some dealers will even be willing to complete the task for free based on the model and brand of the car.
Fob Is Not Working
Replace the batteries if the key fob does not work. This is the easiest fix and most likely what will solve the issue. If your fob still isn't working after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.
The car key fob could be damaged for various reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a corroded board. These issues can stop your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which could cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from opening. It is possible that you will need to hire a professional to replace the fob if it's damaged.
Similarly, the buttons on your device may have become worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They may also stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue However, it's generally best to take the fob to have it professionally evaluated for more thorough repairs.
It is important to ensure that the battery you're using is a precise match for your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you must always consult the owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which kind of battery it requires. A battery that isn't the perfect match may have issues transmitting powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the internal components of the fob.
In the rarest of cases it could be the case that the issue isn't with your key fob, but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if available). If your key's physical counterpart does not work or open your car, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components to ensure they are working properly.
Fob that is damaged
A key fob is composed of many components, and one malfunction can cause other components to fail. When a key fob stops functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's a clear cause like a cracked case or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also important to check other parts of the vehicle, such as the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's recommended to get a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. The fob may require reprogramming in the car, which is something that cannot be done at home, and requires special equipment to do this.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is most common when the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob can also wear out over time. This can result in the button not working when it is pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. This can also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock when the fob has been used.
Most key fobs come with a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can often bring a fob back to proper function and it's a good idea to do this often to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A bad battery is the most common reason why a key fob won't turn on or work. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery in a short time. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself then you can buy a new one at an online store or a hardware store, and follow the instructions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
car key fob repair -case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks within the case, tiny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If you observe any of these issues it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to get a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
Car key fobs are a convenient option that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some instances the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances it may require an intricate repair. The first step is to identify why the fob isn't functioning properly.
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and car is damaged. The connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.
If the key fob not sending a clear signal, other problems could be experienced. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided on the key fob. It's also recommended to carry a spare key with you to use it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This can be caused by weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine if this is the issue by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't light up when you press any of the buttons, it could be that the battery needs to be replaced or that the fob is broken.
The immobilizer in your car could prevent a fob from sending a clear signal. This can occur when your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you're unable to repair the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you should buy a new one. You can find affordable options from numerous online retailers and some are even delivered to your doorstep.