Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be subjected to lots of abuse. Based on the way they're stored and how often they get jostled, their buttons can get stuck or damaged.
Fortunately, the majority of problems with the key fob are simple to solve. But key repair are more serious and require expert assistance. This is where locksmiths come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent However, that doesn't mean that they don't occasionally get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this happens. This won't fix the issue 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 install a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of this kind of emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user's manual for further details). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key that you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you need to be much closer to the car to unlock and open it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to the size of a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the original one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be a little tricky to open, but you should be able to do it by finding the latch, switch or screw at the back of the fob and then prying it open. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so take care not to harm it! If you're not confident doing this on your own it's also possible to bring your fob to an expert. Many auto shops will change the battery of a fob for a small fee as it's a common repair service. Some dealers might even be willing to complete the task for free based on the model and make of the car.
Fob not working
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the fastest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device still does not work after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
The damage to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons, such as physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to your receiver in your car, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from unlocking. You may need to get a professional replacement for your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device may have worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber may wear out making the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is usually best to examine the fob by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in most hardware stores. Refer to the 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 or providing enough power to internal components.
In rare cases it could be a problem in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the door with a physical key and then beginning the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your key's physical counterpart does not allow you to start your car, you should have an expert check the receiver and electronic components to ensure they're functioning properly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob is comprised of a variety of parts and a single malfunction could cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause like a cracked case or a broken internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure that they are working properly.
It's better to replace the key fob if it is damaged than to try to repair it. The fob may need to be reprogrammed to the car, which is something that cannot be done at home, and it requires specialized equipment for doing this.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, they will wear down over time. This is especially common if the fob is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob can be worn out over time. It can lead to the button not working when it is pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. This could also lead to the car not being able to start or unlock after the fob is used.
Most fobs have a plastic cover which can be loosened and then cleaned with water and soap. This can often restore a key fob to functioning properly and it's a good idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A damaged battery is the main reason why a key fob won't turn on or work. Many mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly, but if you feel comfortable 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 the key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board, or corroded or bent battery contact points. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice for a replacement and assistance to program it for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
Car key fobs are a convenient convenience that allows you to unlock your car's doors and begin the engine. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some cases, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. In other situations it may require a more intricate repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
One of the main causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your car is broken. The connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.
If the key fob not sending a clear signal, other problems can occur. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your car. You can do this by following the directions that come with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an additional key, so that you can make use of it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive a strong enough signal from the car. This can be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see 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 that the battery has to be replaced or the fob is broken.
Another possible reason for the fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be preventing it. This can happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or if there is an issue with the software.
If you're not able to solve the issue or it's not worth the effort of trying to repair the fob, then you should look into buying a replacement. You can find affordable alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some are even delivered to your door.