Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to a lot of abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break based on the way they are stored and how often they are jostled.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to solve. Certain key fob issues are more serious and require professional assistance. This is when locksmiths can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite intelligent, but that does not mean that they don't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. But that doesn't always solve the issue, as you could also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car makers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently add a second mechanical key in the fob to be used in an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for specifics). By pressing this, you will be able to open the fob and gain access to an actual key that you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is the fact that you have to be closer to the car to open and lock it than you did before. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
It is relatively 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 guide or video on how to take out the old one. After that, replace the new battery in the same direction that the previous 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 make sure that the new battery was placed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be difficult to open however, you should be able to do it by finding the latch, switch, or screw on the back of the fob, and then prying it open. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so take care not to harm it! You can also take the fob to a professional should you feel uncomfortable making the change yourself. Since it's a common service, most auto shops will replace the battery in a fob for a nominal charge. Some dealers will even perform the swap for free, based on the model and year of your car.
Fob not working
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the easiest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your device still does not work after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
The key fob in your car can be damaged for many reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded or damaged board. These problems can prevent your key from transmitting the signal to your receiver in your car, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from opening. It is possible that you will need to get a professional replacement for the fob if it's damaged.
Similarly, 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 eventually, they'll begin to fail to detect your presses reliably. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, however, it is recommended to examine the fob by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you should always consult your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. A battery that is not an ideal match could have issues transmitting powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the internal components of the fob.
In rare cases, the problem could be in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if there is). If your key's physical counterpart does not work or open your car, make sure an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they're functioning properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob has many components that function together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work, it's important that you examine the cause for obvious reasons such as cracks in the casing or a damaged component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure they're functioning correctly.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than try to repair it. The fob could require reprogramming to the vehicle, which is something that can't usually be done at home and requires specialized equipment for doing this.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board however, these contacts will wear down over time. This is particularly true if the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob can also wear out over time. This can result in a button not working when it's pressed or only working when it's pressing extremely hard. It could also result in the car not being able to start or unlock when the fob is pressed.
Most fobs come with the cover of plastic that can be opened up and cleaned using water and soap. This is often able to help restore a key fob's proper function and it's a great idea to do this regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.
A bad battery is the primary reason that the key fob won't turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you are comfortable with the installation then you can buy a new one at an online store or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube or in your owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, tiny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board, or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If you observe any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or dealer to get a replacement key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery but in other cases it could require an intricate repair. The first step is to figure out the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. It is possible to reset this connection without needing an repair service for your key fob.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other problems could occur. car key fob repair could be the result of a key has been damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either situation, try to reconnect the key to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions included with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an additional key in case you need to make use of it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving a strong enough signal from the car. This could be due to weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the issue. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
Another reason that the fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be blocking it from sending a strong signal. This could be the case when your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly, or if there is a software problem.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should purchase an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options, and some can be delivered directly to your home.