Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to a lot of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how much they are jostled.
The majority of key fob issues are simple to fix. But some are more serious and will require professional help. Locksmiths can be of great help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite intelligent however this doesn't mean that they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. When this happens, it's time to replace the battery. However, this doesn't always fix the problem, because you could also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a problem, and they often add a second mechanical key in the fob to be used in the event of an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key that you can use to unlock the car.
You will also need to be closer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter loses strength when its battery is depleted which limits its range of operation.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and fairly inexpensive. Just be sure to buy a button cell battery (which looks like a tiny silver coin) for your fob, and follow the user guide or video on how to take out the old one. Replace the battery in the same direction that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is placed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by finding the latch, screw, or switch on the back and prying the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob because you'll need it to operate your vehicle! If you're not confident making this change yourself it's also possible to take your fob to an expert. Many auto shops will change the battery of a fob for a nominal fee because it's a common repair service. Some dealers might even complete the task for free based on the model and year of your car.
Fob Is Not Working
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and will most likely fix the issue. If your device is not working after a change of battery, it could be due damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
Your car key fob can be damaged for various reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a damaged or corroded board. These issues could stop your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver inside your car, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from locking. It is possible that you will need to get a professional replacement for your key if it's damaged.
The buttons on your fob might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber can wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and may start to fail to register your press accurately. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to examine the fob by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in a majority of 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 have problems transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the internal components of the fob.
In rare instances it could be that the issue is not the key fob itself but more with 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 start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your vehicle then a mechanic should inspect the receiver and electronic components of your vehicle to determine whether they're working properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of many components that work together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work it's crucial to look for obvious causes such as cracks in the casing or a damaged component. Examine the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to make sure they are functioning correctly.
It's better to replace the key fob if it's damaged, rather than try to repair it. The fob could require reprogramming to the car this is something that isn't something you can do at home, and requires special equipment to do this.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is more likely if you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
Over time the internal wiring of a key fob can also wear down. This can result in the button not functioning when it's pressed, or only functioning when it's pressing very hard. It can also lead to the car not opening or locking when the fob is activated.
Most key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned safely with soap and warm water. This can restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's recommended for you to do it often to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
A faulty battery is typically the reason why a key fob will not turn on or work. 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 battery at an hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, like cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or corroded or bent battery contact points. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice on a replacement as well as assistance getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start key fob repairs near me your engine and unlock the doors of your car. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some cases the problem can be solved by replacing the battery. In other circumstances, it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify why the fob isn't functioning properly.
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 broken. It is possible to reset this connection without having to call an repair service for your key fob.
Other issues can occur when the key fob no longer sends a clear signal. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be done by following the instructions provided on the key fob. Also, you should keep a spare car key in the event that your primary key fails.
The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This can be caused by an insufficient car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. You can test the fob to see if this is the issue by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
Another reason that a fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system is preventing it from sending a strong signal. This could be the case when your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if you have a software issue.
If you're not able to solve the issue or it's not worth the effort of trying to repair the fob, you should consider buying a new one. You can find low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some can even be delivered to your door.