Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can get stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how they are tossed around.
Most key fob issues are easy to fix. Certain key fob issues are more serious and require expert assistance. This is when locksmiths can come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart, but that does not mean that they don't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding zone". When this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. It's not a solution because there could be an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in this kind of emergency. To access this, you can find the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this can allow you to unlock the fob and access an actual key that you can use to unlock your vehicle.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is that you need to be closer to your car to open and lock it than you did before. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery dies which limits the range of operation.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You will 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. After that, replace the new battery in the same direction that the old one was inserted (the positive side should face upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its lock/unlock and start functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by finding the latch, screw, or switch on the back and prying the fob off. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll need it to operate your vehicle! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own then you can bring your fob to a professional. Since it's a routine service the majority of auto shops will replace the battery inside the fob for a small cost. Some dealers might even be willing to complete the task for free based on the model and make of your car.
Fob Is Not Working
The first thing you need to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and will most likely fix the issue. If your fob is still not working after a battery change it could be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The damage to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from communicating with the vehicle's receiver and prevent your car's doors and/or ignition from unlocking or turning on. You may need to hire a professional to replace your key if it's damaged.
In the same way, the buttons on your device could have become worn-out over time due to repeated use. key fob repairs can wear out and make the buttons less responsive or clicky, and they can begin to fail to detect your pressing accurately. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem However, it's generally recommended to send the fob to a professional evaluated for more thorough repairs.
It is important to ensure that the battery you're using is a exact match for the fob you're using. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or in most hardware stores, and you must always refer to your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. If the battery is not the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and supplying sufficient power to internal components.
In some cases, the problem could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if 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 Damaged
A key fob has many parts that work together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it's crucial to check for obvious causes like cracks in the casing or a damaged component. Check the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to make sure they are working properly.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than try to repair it. It might be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they can wear down over time. This is more common when you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
In time the internal wiring of the key fob could get worn out. It could result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is used.
Most fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened up and cleaned using soap and water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's also a good idea to clean it regularly to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A faulty battery is typically the reason for a key fob to not turn on or work. Most mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself, you can purchase an additional one from an online store or hardware store and follow the instructions on YouTube or in your owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded battery contact points. If you find any of these issues, you should consult an auto locksmith or dealer to get a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are an excellent feature that lets you unlock your car doors and then start the engine. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some cases, the issue can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other circumstances, it could require a more intricate repair. The first step is to figure out why the fob isn't functioning properly.
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 car is broken. This connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other issues could be experienced. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. You can do this by following the directions that come with the key fob. Also, you should have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key fails.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see if this is the issue by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't blink when you press one of the buttons, it could be because the battery is in need of replacement or that the fob is been damaged.
Another reason why the fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is hindering it from doing so. This could happen in the event that your key fob isn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you're not able to resolve the issue, or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, then you should think about buying a new one. There are low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers, and some of these are even delivered to your doorstep.