Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are knocked around, their buttons may be damaged or stuck.
Most key fob issues are simple to fix. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious, and require expert assistance. A locksmith can be of great help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs are quite smart, but that doesn't mean they don't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. This doesn't solve the problem because there could be an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a issue, and frequently install an extra mechanical key inside the fob to use in the event 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 more details). Pressing this button, you can open the fob to reveal a physical key that you can use to unlock the car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is that you need to be closer to your car in order to unlock and open it than you did before. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in energy when its battery is depleted. This reduces its range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase a button cell battery (which looks like an incredibly small silver coin) for your fob and follow the user's guideline or video instructions on how to remove the old one. After that, replace the new battery in the same way that the old 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. This will ensure that the new battery is placed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch at the back and then prying the fob apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to cause damage! You can also take the fob to a professional if you are not comfortable making the change yourself. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs for a small fee, since it's such an everyday repair service. Some dealers will even do it for free depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing you need to do when your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the easiest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your device does not work after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
The car key fob could be damaged for various reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded or damaged board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to your receiver in your vehicle, which could then prevent your car's ignition or doors from locking. You may have to hire a professional to replace your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. car key repairs may wear out and make the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They may also cease to register your presses. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is recommended to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a precise match to your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores, and you should always consult your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. A battery that isn't the perfect match may be unable to transmit strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.
In some cases the issue could be in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the door with the physical key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have 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 made up of a variety of parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work it is important to look for obvious causes such as cracked casings or a damaged component. It's also crucial to examine other components of the vehicle, such as the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.
It's better to replace the key fob if it's damaged rather than try to repair it. The fob might need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle, which is something that isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment for doing this.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is more likely if you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob can also wear out over time. This could lead to the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when it's pressed extremely hard. It can also lead to the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
Most key fobs come with a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can often restore a key fob to functioning properly and it's a great idea to do this regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A faulty battery is typically the reason why a key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly but if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a new battery from a hardware store or big-box retailer and follow the 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, like cracks within 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 case, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice on a replacement and help to program it for your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. When they stop working or fail to function, they can be a hassle. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery but in other cases, it could involve a more complicated repair. The first step is to figure out the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and car is broken. You may be able to reset the connection without having to call a key fob repair service.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other issues could occur. This could happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either case, you should attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the directions provided on the key fob. Also, you should keep a spare car key in case the primary key fails.
It's possible that the fob doesn't receive the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the issue. If the tester doesn't light up when you press any of the buttons, it could be a sign that the battery is in need of replacement or that the fob is been damaged.
Another reason why the fob not sending an adequate signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it from doing so. This could happen if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if there's a software issue.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, you should look into buying a replacement. You can find affordable options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can be delivered directly to your door.