Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they get moved around, their buttons could be damaged or stuck.
The majority of key fob issues are easy to fix. But some are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when a locksmith can come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become pretty intelligent however, that doesn't mean they don't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. When this happens, it's time to replace the battery. It's not a solution since there may be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a issue, and frequently include a mechanical key inside the fob to use in an emergency. To gain access to this, find the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user manual for more details). By pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be a lot closer to your car to unlock and open it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user manual to remove the old battery. Then, 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 make sure that the new battery was installed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by finding the latch, screw or switch in the back and prying the fob off. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to harm it! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own then you can take your fob to an expert. Since it's a routine service, most auto shops will swap the battery inside fobs for a minimal charge. Some dealers may even complete the task for free based on the model and year of the car.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the easiest solution and will fix the problem. If your fob is still not functioning after a battery change, it could be due damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The damage to the car key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a damaged circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver in your car, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to repair the part or the entire device.
The buttons on your fob may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and cause the buttons to become less responsive or clicky, and they can begin to fail to detect your press accurately. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue However, it's generally best to take the fob to a professional assessed for more extensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a precise match for the fob you're using. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that is not the perfect match may have problems transmitting powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the fob's internal components.
In rare cases, the problem could be with the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system and you want to test it, you can do so by opening the door using the physical key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your car then a mechanic should inspect the electronic components and receiver of your car to see whether they're functioning properly.
Fob that is damaged
A key fob is composed of a variety of parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious like a damaged or cracked case, or a damaged internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the car to ensure that they are working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to find a replacement at your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix 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.
Over time the contacts on buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is most common when the device is dropped or left in hot weather.
Over time the internal wiring inside a key fob can also wear down. This could result in the button not working when it's pressed or only working when press extremely 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 by using soap and warm water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's an excellent idea for you to do it often to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A bad battery is the primary reason why the key fob won't turn on or work. Most mechanics and car dealers can replace the battery quickly. If you're confident in installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase the new one from an online store or hardware store and follow the steps on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or dealer for advice on a replacement as well as assistance getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
Car key fobs are an excellent option that lets you unlock your car's doors and begin the engine. When they stop working, or fail to function, they can be a hassle. In some cases the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery but in other situations it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to figure out why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
The most common reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and your car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
Other problems can arise when the key fob isn't able car key fob repairs near me to sends a strong signal. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions that came with the key fob. You should also have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key fails.
It's possible that the fob isn't receiving the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This could be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. You can test the fob to determine whether this is the cause by using the remote tester. If the tester does not blink when you press one of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery needs to be replaced or that the fob has broken.
An immobilizer on your car may be preventing the fob from sending a strong signal. This can happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle, or it's an issue with the software.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you should buy the new one. You can find affordable alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some are even delivered to your door.