Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to many abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they get moved around, their buttons could become stuck or broken.
The majority of key fob issues are fixable. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious and require expert assistance. This is where locksmiths be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become 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 if this occurs. This doesn't solve the problem because there could be a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, and they frequently put a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just the case of an emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user manual for more details). Pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
You'll also need to be closer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery dies and limits the range of operation.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively inexpensive. Be sure to purchase the button cell battery (which appears like a tiny silver coin) for your fob and follow the user guide or video on how to take out the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and start functions of the fob after reassembling it. This will ensure that the new battery is installed correctly.
Some key fobs are a little tricky to open but you should be able to open them by locating the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and then tearing it apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to operate your car! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own it's also possible to take your key fob to a professional. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs for a small fee as it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers might even be willing to perform the swap for free, based on the model and year of your 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 straightforward fix and most likely what can fix the issue. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
Damage can occur to the car key fob due to a variety of reasons including physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These problems can prevent your key from sending the signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from locking. You may need to get a professional replacement for your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away, making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They can also cease to register your presses. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the battery you're using is a perfect match to your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores. You should always consult your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what kind of battery it requires. A battery that isn't an ideal match could have problems transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.
In rare instances it could be the case that the issue isn't with your key fob but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system and you want to test it, you can do so by opening the doors with the physical key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If your key's physical counterpart does not allow you to start your car, have an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they're functioning properly.
Fob Is Damaged
A key fob is made up of many parts that are interconnected and a single failure could cause other parts to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause such as a damaged case or a malfunctioning internal component. Check the horn, light and other components of the car to ensure they're working properly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. It may be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not 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 most common when the fob is dropped or left in hot weather.
In time, the internal wiring in a key fob can also wear down. remote key fob repair could result in a button not working when it's being pressed or only working when it's pressing extremely hard. It could also result in the vehicle not being able start or unlock after the fob is used.
The majority of fobs have the cover of plastic that can be opened and cleaned using water and soap. This can bring a keyfob back to its original purpose. It's also a good idea for you to do it regularly to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A bad battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or work. Many mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly however, if you're at ease doing it yourself, you can buy a battery at a hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, like cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If you observe any of these problems you should contact an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a replacement key fob and assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
Car key fobs are a convenient feature that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. When they stop working, or fail to function, they can be a hassle. In some instances, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. However, in other cases, it might require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
One of the main reasons for a malfunctioning remote is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. This connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a strong signal, other problems could be experienced. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, try to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions provided on the key fob. It is also recommended to have a spare car keys in case your primary key is lost.
It's possible that the fob isn't receiving an adequate signal from the car. This could be caused by a weak car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and check if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester doesn't light up when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
An immobilizer on your car may prevent a fob from sending a clear signal. This could happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle or in the event of a software issue.
If you can't fix the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should purchase a new one. You can find low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some can be delivered directly to your doorstep.