Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are knocked around, their buttons may become stuck or broken.
Luckily, most issues with key fobs are simple to fix. However, there are some that are more complicated and require expert assistance. Locksmiths can be a great resource in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite smart however it doesn't mean they can't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. But that doesn't always solve the issue, as you may also have an issue with one of the battery connector terminals.
Car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often put a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in this kind of emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user manual for more details). When you press this button, you'll be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
You'll also need to be nearer to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob's transmitter loses power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user's guide to remove the old battery. Then, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is placed correctly.
Some key fobs can be a little tricky to open, but 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 to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to harm it! repair car keys near me can also take the fob to a professional should you feel uncomfortable making it your own. Because it's a standard procedure, most auto shops will change the battery in the fob for a small charge. Some dealers might even complete the task for free based on the model and year of your car.
Fob not working
The first thing you need to do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and will most likely fix the problem. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
The key fob in your car can be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a damaged or corroded board. These issues can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle and prevent your car's doors or ignition from unlocking or turning on. You may need to get a professional replacement for the fob if it's damaged.
In the same way, the buttons on your fob may have become worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less responsive or clicky and may begin to fail to detect your pressing accurately. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is generally recommended to examine the fob by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. A battery that is not the perfect match may be unable to transmit powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the fob's internal components.
In very rare cases it could be that the issue is not with your key fob but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using an actual key to open the door, and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if there is). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, have an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they're functioning properly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob contains numerous components that function together, and one failure can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious such as a damaged case or a malfunctioning internal component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the car to make sure they are functioning correctly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's recommended to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. It could be necessary to reset the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
Over time the contacts on buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is more common when you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.
Over time the internal wiring inside the key fob may become worn down. This could result in a button not working when it's pressed or only working when pressing very hard. It could also cause the car not opening or locking when the fob is activated.
Most fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened up and cleaned using water and soap. This is often able to restore a key fob to proper function, and it's a good idea to do this regularly to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A faulty battery is typically the reason the key fob will not turn on or work. Most mechanics and car dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you are confident in installing the battery yourself then you can buy a new one at the big-box or hardware store and follow the directions on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
The worst-case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks, tiny electronic components not fully connected to the circuit boards or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions on a replacement and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and open the doors of your vehicle. If they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be frustrating. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery but in other cases it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is determining why the fob doesn't work correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and car is damaged. It is possible to reset this connection without having to call repair of your key fob.
Other issues could arise when the key fob no more sends a strong signal. This can happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions that came with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an extra key to make use of it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
It's possible that the fob isn't receiving a strong enough signal from the car. This could be caused by an insufficient car battery, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and check if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be broken.
Another reason that the fob not transmitting an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system is preventing it. This could be the case if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if you have a software issue.
If you're unable to repair the fob or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should buy a new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some are delivered to your residence.