Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to many abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how often they are tossed around.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to solve. But some are more serious and require expert assistance. A locksmith can be a great resource in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this happens. This doesn't solve the problem because there could be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this issue, and they frequently put a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of the case of an emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user's manual for further details). Pressing this can allow you to unlock the fob and access a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is 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 because the fob's transmitter loses strength when its battery dies which limits its range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Just be sure to buy a button cell battery (which appears like tiny silver coins) for your fob and follow the user guide or video on how to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way as the original one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the new battery is installed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be difficult to open, but you should be able to do it by placing the latch, switch or screw at the back of the fob and then prying it open. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to connect to your vehicle! You can also take your fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs for a small fee as it's a common repair service. Some dealers might even offer to do it for free depending on the model and make of the car.
Fob not working
The first thing you need to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and will most likely fix the issue. If your fob is still not functioning after a battery change, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
Damage can occur to your car key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, water exposure or a corroded circuit board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your car, which will cause your car's ignition to stop 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 fob could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away, making the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your presses. You can try wiping down the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the issue however, it's recommended to send the fob to a professional evaluated for more thorough repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. If the battery is not the correct fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be that the problem is not with your key fob, but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system (if available). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, make sure a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they're functioning properly.
Fob that is damaged
A key fob contains numerous components that function together and a single failure could cause others to fail. When a key fob stops functioning, it is important to determine whether there's a clear cause such as a damaged case or a broken internal component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the car to ensure that they are functioning properly.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged rather than try to repair it. It may be necessary to reprogram the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is particularly true if the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob may also wear out over time. It can lead to a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It could also result in the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
The majority of key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned safely with soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original purpose. It's recommended for you to do it often to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A damaged battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery quickly. If you are confident in installing the battery yourself then you can buy an additional one from the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that your key fob has internal damages, such as cracks or tiny electronic components that are not fully attached to the circuit boards or bent and corroded battery contact points. If you find any of these problems you should contact an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain a replacement key fob and help in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are a handy option that lets you unlock your car's doors and start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or appear to be working intermittently. In some instances, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. However, in other circumstances, it could require a more intricate repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
One of the most common causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your car is cut off. You can sometimes reset this connection without the need for a key fob repair service.
Other issues can occur when the key fob isn't able to sends an energizing signal. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions on the key fob. It is also recommended to have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key is lost.
It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive a strong enough signal from the car. This can be due to a weak battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and key car repair check if it's the issue. If the tester doesn't light up when any of the buttons are press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob is broken.
An immobilizer on your car may be preventing the fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or it's an issue with the software.
If you're unable to repair the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you should purchase the new one. You can find affordable alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some can even be delivered to your door.