Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be damaged. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are jostled, their buttons can get stuck or damaged.
Most key fob issues are easy to fix. Some key fob issues are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is where locksmiths can help.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart, but that does not mean that they don't occasionally get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. However, that's not always the solution to the problem, because you could also have a bad 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 use in the event of an emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). Pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
You will also need to be closer to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. This is because the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery is depleted, limiting its range of operation.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase a button cell battery (which appears like tiny silver coins) to replace your fob, and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to take out the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch in the back and prying the fob in two. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll need it to operate your car! If you're not confident in doing this on your own then you can send your fob to a professional. Most auto shops will swap a fob's battery for a small fee because it's a common repair service. Some dealers will even offer it for free dependent on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your fob still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be caused by damage.
The car key fob could be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a corroded or damaged board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the vehicle's receiver, which then prevents your car's doors and/or ignition from locking or turning on. You may need to have a professional replace the fob if it's damaged.
The buttons on your device might have worn out due to 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 may try wiping them down and adjusting them, however, it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.
It is important to ensure that the battery you're using is a precise match to your fob. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for more information. A battery that is not an ideal match could have problems transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In rare instances the issue 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 with an actual key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your key isn't working to open or start your car then a mechanic should inspect the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.
Fob Damaged
A key fob has many components that are interconnected and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it is important to check for obvious causes like cracked casings or a broken component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the car to make sure they are functioning properly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's recommended to get a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith rather than trying to repair it. The fob could need to be reprogrammed to the car this is something that cannot be done at home, and it requires specialized equipment for doing this.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is especially true if you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
As time passes the internal wiring inside the key fob could wear down. This could lead to the button not functioning when it's pressed, or only functioning when it's pressed very hard. It can also lead to the car not opening or locking when the fob is activated.
The majority of key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This is a great way to help restore a key fob's functioning properly and it's a great idea to do this regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A damaged battery is usually the reason why a key fob will not turn on or work. The majority of mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the batteries in a short time, but if you feel comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a battery from a hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks, tiny electronic components not fully attached to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If any of these are the situation, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement and help to program it for your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and open the doors of your car. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or appear to function intermittently. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning remote is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. key repairs is possible to reset the connection without having to call repair of your key fob.
Other problems can arise when the key fob isn't able to sends an energizing signal. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions that come with the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key in case you need to use it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due to weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. With a remote tester, you can test the fob to see if it is the cause of the issue. If the tester does not light up when any of the buttons are pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
A car's immobilizer could also prevent a fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or if there is a software issue.
If you can't fix the fob or it's not worth the effort to fix it, you should buy an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some are delivered directly to your home.