Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be subjected to many abuse. Based on the way they're stored and how often they are moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
The majority of key fob issues are fixable. However, there are some that are more complicated and will require professional help. Locksmiths can be a great resource in these cases.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become quite smart however it doesn't mean they can't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. It's not a solution since there may 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 problem, and they often install an extra mechanical key inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user manual for specifics). Pressing this button, you can open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to unlock the car.
You'll also need to be close to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This reduces its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively inexpensive. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which looks like a tiny silver coin) for your fob, and follow the user's manual or video instructions on how to remove the old one. Then, replace the new battery in the same direction that the old one was inserted (the positive side should face upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be a little tricky to open, but you should be able to do it by locating the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and then tearing it apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to damage it! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself then you can bring your fob to an expert. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs for a small fee as it's a common repair service. Some dealers might even do it for no cost depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if your key fob doesn't work. This is the most straightforward solution and can fix the issue. If your fob is still not working after a change of battery, it could be due damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
Your car key fob can be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a corroded board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the car's receiver, which then prevents the doors of your car and/or ignition from opening or even starting. It is possible that you will need to have a professional replace your fob if it is damaged.
In the same way, the buttons on your fob may have become worn out with repeated use. repair car key can wear out making the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your press. 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 have it professionally evaluated for more thorough repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a precise match for the fob you're using. You can find a list on the internet or in many hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for more information. A battery that is not an ideal match could have problems transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.
In the rarest of cases it could be that the issue isn't with your key fob 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 a physical key and then beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If your physical key doesn't open or start your car then a mechanic should inspect the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine whether 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 functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's an obvious cause such as a damaged case or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also crucial to examine other components of the vehicle such as the lights and horn to determine whether those are working normally.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's recommended to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix it. It may be necessary to reprogram the fob for the car. This is not something you can do at home and requires special equipment.
The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board, but these may wear out over time. This is more likely when you drop the device or leave it in hot weather.
In time the internal wiring inside the key fob may become worn down. It can lead to the button not working when pressed, or only is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also cause the car not opening or locking when the fob is activated.
Most fobs come with a plastic cover that can be opened up and safely cleaned with water and soap. This is a great way to help restore a key fob's its original function, and it's a good idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A bad battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or work. Most car dealers and mechanics can replace 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 the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or corroded or bent battery contact points. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions on a replacement as well as assistance to program it to your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be a hassle. In some cases, the issue can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other cases, it might require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine why the fob doesn't work correctly.
One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
Other problems can arise when the key fob isn't able to sends a clear signal. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions that come with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an additional key in case you need to use it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due to a weak car battery, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine if this is the issue by using a remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when one of the buttons is press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob is damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also hinder the fob from sending a strong signal. This can happen if your fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle or it's an issue with the software.
If you're unable to repair the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to repair it, you need to purchase an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options and some can be delivered directly to your home.