Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be damaged. Based on the way they're stored and how often they're moved around, their buttons could become stuck or broken.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to solve. Some key fob issues are more serious and require assistance from a professional. A locksmith can be of great help in these cases.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. But that doesn't always solve the issue, since you may also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often put a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. To access this, find the small release button or latch located behind the fob (check the user manual for specifics). Pressing this button, you will be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key that you can use to open the car.
You will also need to be nearer to your car to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery is depleted and limits the range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user guide to remove the old battery. After that, replace the new battery in the same direction that the old one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its lock/unlock and start functions to be certain the new battery was installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by finding the latch, screw, or switch at the back and then prying the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to operate your car! If you're not confident in making this change yourself, you can also send your key fob to a professional. Many auto shops will change the battery of a fob for a nominal fee as it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers may even offer it for free dependent on the make and model of your vehicle.
car keys repair Working
The first thing you need to do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and will likely resolve the problem. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
Damage can happen to your car key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver and prevent the doors of your car and/or ignition from locking or starting. It is possible that you will need to get a professional replacement for the fob if it's damaged.
The buttons on your fob could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and may begin to fail to detect your press accurately. You can try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue however, it's recommended to send the fob to have it professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in most hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. If the battery is not the right fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals or providing enough power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be that the problem is not with your key fob, but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if there is). If your key isn't working to open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of many parts, and one malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it is important to check for obvious causes like a cracked casing or a broken component. It's also essential to examine other components of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether those are working normally.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of trying to fix it. It might be necessary to reprogramme 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 of the key fob, but these can wear down over time. This is more likely when you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also become worn out over time. This can result in buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or works when pressed very strongly. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able start or unlock after the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs come with a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This is often able to restore a key fob to functioning properly, 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 function. The majority of mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the batteries in a short time, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a new battery at a hardware store or 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 has internal damage, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board or bent or corroded battery contact points. If you observe any of these problems, you should consult an auto locksmith or dealer to get a replacement key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are an excellent convenience that allows you to unlock your car doors and then start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or appear to function intermittently. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, however, in other instances, it could involve an intricate repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.
One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and car is damaged. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
Other issues can occur when the key fob no longer sends a strong signal. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be done by following the instructions on the key fob. You should also keep a spare car key in case your primary key is lost.
It's possible that the fob isn't getting an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to a weak car battery, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob to determine if it's the problem. If the tester does not light up when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be damaged.
Another reason that the fob not sending the right signal is that the car's immobilizer system is hindering it from sending a strong signal. This can happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle or in the event of a software problem.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should buy an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options, and some can be delivered to your residence.