Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're kept and how often they are knocked around, their buttons may become stuck or broken.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are easy to resolve. But some are more serious and will require professional help. Locksmiths can be a huge help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent, but that does not mean they do not sometimes get stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. However, this doesn't always fix the problem, because there could be a bad connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car makers are aware of the possibility of a issue, and often include a mechanical key inside the fob to use in the event of an emergency. To access this, you can locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for details). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob and gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
You'll also need to be closer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery is depleted and limits its range of operation.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like the size of a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user guide to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same orientation that the previous one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch at the back, and then tearing the fob apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to harm it! If you're not confident in doing this yourself then you can send your key fob to an expert. Because it's a standard procedure that most auto shops will change the battery inside fobs for a minimal fee. Some dealers might even do it for free depending on the model and make of the car.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest solution and will fix the problem. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
Your car key fob can be damaged for many reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a corroded board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which then prevents your car's doors or ignition from opening or even starting. If your fob is damaged it's likely you will need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
In the same way, the buttons on your device may have become worn-out over time due to repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less responsive or clicky, and they can start to fail to register your press accurately. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is usually best to get the fob examined by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on your fob for more information. If the battery is not the right one for your needs it could have problems transmitting strong signals and providing enough power to internal components.
In rare cases the issue could be with the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door with an actual key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if available). If your physical key does not open or start your car, you should have an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they're working correctly.
Fob that is damaged
A key fob is comprised of a variety of parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious such as a damaged case or a damaged internal component. It's also crucial to examine other parts of the vehicle such as the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. It could be necessary to reprogramme the fob to connect to your car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts that transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, they may wear out over time. This is particularly true if the fob is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also become worn out over time. This could result in the button not functioning when it's being pressed or only working when it's pressed very hard. It could also cause the car not opening or locking when the fob is pressed.
Most fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened up and then cleaned with water and soap. This can restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's recommended for you to do it frequently to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
A bad 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, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself you can buy a battery at the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob has internal damages, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards, or corroded and bent contact points for batteries. If you observe any of these issues it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a new key fob and assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and open the doors of your car. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or appear to be working intermittently. In some instances, the issue can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other situations it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify the reason for the fob not functioning correctly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and car is broken. This connection can be restored without the need for expensive key fob repair .
Other issues could arise when the key fob no longer sends a clear signal. This could happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions that came on the key fob. Also, you should have a spare car keys in case the primary key fails.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting an adequate signal from the car. This could be due an insufficient battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester does not light up when you press one of the buttons, it could be a sign that the battery has to be replaced or that the fob is been damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also be preventing the fob from sending out a strong signal. This can occur if your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or you have a software issue.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then you should consider buying a new one. You can find affordable alternatives from a variety of online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your doorstep.