Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can get stuck or break based on the way they are stored and how they are tossed around.
Most key fob issues are simple to fix. Certain key fob issues are more serious, and require assistance from a professional. Locksmiths can be of great help in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart However, that doesn't mean that they don't occasionally become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. However, that's not always the solution to the issue, as you could also have an issue with one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently include a mechanical key in the fob to use in the event of an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for more details). When you press this button, you can open the fob and reveal a physical key that you can use to unlock your car.
You'll also need to be nearer to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and fairly inexpensive. You'll need the button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user manual to take out the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same way that the previous one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to ensure that the new battery was placed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw, or switch in the back and then prying the fob off. Be careful not to break the fob, because you'll need it to operate your car! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own then you can send your key fob to a professional. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will replace the battery on the fob for a small cost. Some dealers will even do it for no cost, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
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 is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your fob is still not working after a battery change it could be due damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
The damage to your car key fob for a variety of reasons including physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These issues could stop your key from communicating with the car's receiver and prevent your car's doors and/or ignition from opening or turning on. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll require an expert to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
In the same way, the buttons on your device may have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky', and they can begin to fail to detect your pressing accurately. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is recommended to examine the fob by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on the fob to find out more. A battery that isn't the perfect match may have problems transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.
In rare instances 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 doors with a physical key and then start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have not allow you to start your car, make sure a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they're functioning properly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is made up of numerous components that function together and a single malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob stops functioning, it is important to determine whether there's a cause obvious like a damaged or cracked case, or a damaged internal component. Check the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to ensure they're working properly.
It is better to replace the key fob in case it is damaged than to try to repair it. It could be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your 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 circuit board on the key fob, but these will wear down over time. This is more common when you drop the device or leave it in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob may also wear out over time. This could lead to the button not working when it's being pressed or only working when pressing very hard. It could also cause the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is used.
Most fobs have an outer cover made of plastic which can be loosened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This is a great way to help restore a key fob's proper function and it's a good practice to clean it regularly to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A damaged battery is usually the reason why a key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you are comfortable with the installation, you can purchase the new one from the big-box or hardware store and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If any of these are the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement as well as assistance getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances it could require an even more complex repair. The first step is to figure out the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key fob repair .
Other problems can arise when the key fob no more sends a clear signal. This can happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is not functioning properly. In either situation, try to reconnect the key to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided on the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry a spare key with you, so that you can use it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
The fob may not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due an insufficient battery in the car, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine if this is the issue by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery needs to be replaced or that the fob has been damaged.
Another reason why the fob not transmitting an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be blocking it from sending a strong signal. This can occur in the event that your key fob isn't been programmed correctly, or if you have a software issue.
If you're unable to resolve the issue, or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, then you should think about buying a new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some can be delivered directly to your home.