Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can get stuck or break based on the way they are stored and how often they are jostled.
Most key fob problems are simple to fix. Some key fob issues are more severe and require assistance from a professional. This is where a locksmith can help.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten pretty smart however, that doesn't mean they don't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. It's not a solution because there could be an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often install a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of the case of an emergency. It is accessible by finding the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user's manual to find out more). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to open the car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you need to be much closer to your car in order to open and lock it than you did before. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter loses strength when its battery is depleted and limits its operating range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user guide to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the original one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to be certain the battery was installed correctly.
Some key fobs can be difficult to open however, you should be able to open them by finding the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob and prying it apart. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll require it to work with your vehicle! You could also take the fob to an expert if you are not comfortable making the change yourself. Because it's a standard procedure, most auto shops will change the battery in a fob for a nominal charge. Some dealers may even do it for free depending on the model and year of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
The first thing you should do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the fastest fix and will most likely fix the issue. If your device is not working after a change of battery, it could be due damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The car key fob could be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded or damaged board. These problems can prevent your key from transmitting the signal to your receiver in your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. If your fob is damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain could have worn out with repeated use. Rubber can wear out and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may cease to register your presses. Try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to a professional evaluated for more thorough repairs.
Double check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in a majority of hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for more information. If the battery is not the right one for your needs it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be the case that the problem is not the key fob itself but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the doors with an actual key and start the car with the inductive backup (if there is). If the physical key you have not work or open your car, have a mechanic check the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they're working correctly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob is comprised of a variety of parts and one issue can cause other components to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to look for obvious causes such as cracks in the casing or a damaged component. It's also important to check other parts of the vehicle such as the lights and horn to determine whether those are working normally.
It is better to replace the key fob if it's damaged rather than attempt to repair it. The fob may require reprogramming to the car and this isn't something you can do at home, and it requires special equipment to do so.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is more likely when you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob could be worn out over time. It can lead to buttons that don't function when pressed, or works when pressed very strongly. It could also cause the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
The majority of key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This is often able to bring a fob back to functioning properly and it's a great practice to clean it often to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A damaged battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not work or turn on. Most car dealers and mechanics can change the batteries quickly however, if you're at ease doing it yourself, you can buy a battery from an hardware store or big-box retailer and follow instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board, or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If you find any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and open the doors of your car. If they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be frustrating. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, however, in other instances, it could involve an intricate repair. The first step is to identify why the fob doesn't work correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is cut off. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
When the key fob is no longer sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In any case, attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. key repair can do this by following the directions that come with the key fob. It's also recommended to carry an additional key, so that you can use it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due weak batteries in the car, interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the problem by using a remote tester. If the tester does not blink when you press any of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery has to be replaced or the fob is been damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also prevent a fob from sending a strong signal. This can happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or if there is a software issue.
If you aren't able to solve the issue or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, you should think about buying a new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options and some are delivered directly to your home.