Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to lots of abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they are jostled, their buttons can get stuck or damaged.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are simple to fix. Certain key fob issues are more serious and require professional assistance. A locksmith can be a great resource in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite intelligent However, that doesn't mean they do not sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. But that doesn't always solve the problem, because there could be an issue with one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually put a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in the case of an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user manual to find out more). Pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to unlock your car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is that you need to be much closer to the car to open and lock it than before. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which appears like an incredibly small silver coin) for your fob and follow the user's guideline or video instructions on how to take out the old one. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same way that the old one was placed (the positive side should be facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the new battery was placed correctly.
Some key fobs can be a little tricky to open however, you should be able to open them by finding the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob and then tearing it apart. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to cause damage! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself, you can also send your key fob to a professional. Since it's a common service the majority of auto shops will swap the battery on fobs for a minimal charge. Some dealers will even do it for free depending on the model and brand of the car.
Fob not working
The first thing to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest solution and can fix the issue. If your device is not functioning after a battery change, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
Your car key fob can be damaged due to various reasons, such as physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded board. These problems can prevent your key from sending the signal to the receiver inside your car, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely you will need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your fob could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and eventually, they'll start to fail to register your pressing accurately. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, however, it is usually best to examine the fob by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a perfect match for the fob you're using. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores, and you must always consult the owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which kind of battery it requires. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals or providing enough power to internal components.
In very rare cases it could be the case that the problem is not 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 an actual key and starting the car using the inductive backup (if available). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, make sure an expert check the receiver and electronic components to make sure they are working properly.
Fob Is Damaged
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 to function it's crucial to examine the cause for obvious reasons such as cracks in the casing or a broken component. It's also important to check other components of the vehicle such as the horn and lights to see whether those are working normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. The fob may need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle and this isn't something you can do at home, and it requires specialized equipment for doing so.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is more likely if you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
Over time the internal wiring inside a key fob can also wear down. It can lead to 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 activated.
Most key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's an excellent idea for you to do it often to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
key repair is typically the reason for a key fob to not work or turn on. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself, you can purchase a new battery from 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, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded battery contact points. If you notice any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain a replacement key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are an excellent option that lets you unlock your car's doors and start the engine. When they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be frustrating. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, however, in other instances it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine the reason for the fob not functioning properly.
The most common reason for a fob not working is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and the car is damaged. You can sometimes reset the connection without needing repair of your key fob.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other problems can be experienced. This can happen if the key is damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either situation, attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions provided by the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare key with you in case you need to utilize it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to determine if this is the issue by using the remote tester. If the tester does not illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it could be a sign that the battery has to be replaced or the fob is broken.
Another reason why a fob not sending the right signal is that the car's immobilizer system is preventing it. This could happen when your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if there is a software problem.
If you're not able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then consider buying a new one. You can find affordable options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your doorstep.