Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break depending on how they are stored and how often they are thrown around.
The majority of key fob issues are simple to fix. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require assistance from a professional. This is where locksmiths can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs are pretty smart however, that doesn't mean they don't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. However, this doesn't always fix the problem, because you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, and they frequently install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in the case of an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob and access a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
You will also need to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in energy when its battery is depleted. This reduces its range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Be sure to 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. Replace the battery in the same way that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
Some key fobs can be a little tricky to open however, you should be able to do it by finding the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and prying it apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to cause damage! If you're not confident making this change yourself, you can also send your fob to an expert. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will replace the battery inside the fob for a small cost. Some dealers may even do it for free depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing you should do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your device is not working after a change of battery, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
Damage can happen to your car's key fob due to a variety of reasons including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which could cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from opening. You may have to have a professional replace your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your fob may have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out making the buttons less clicky or springy. They can also stop registering your press. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the problem however, it's recommended to send the fob to be professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a exact match to your fob. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If the battery is not the correct fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals or providing sufficient power to internal components.
In some cases the issue could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the doors with the physical key and start the car with the inductive backup (if there is). If your key's physical counterpart does not allow you to start your car, make sure a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they are working properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is comprised of many components, and one malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases working it's important to examine whether there's an obvious cause like a damaged or cracked case, or a broken internal component. It's also essential to examine other areas of the vehicle such as the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
If the key fob is damaged, you should get a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. The fob might require reprogramming to the car this is something that can't usually be done at home and requires specialized equipment for doing so.
The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, they can wear down over time. This is most common when the fob is dropped or left in hot weather.
As time passes the internal wiring of a key fob can also become worn down. This could result in a button not working when it's pressed, or only functioning when it's pressed very hard. It could also result in the vehicle not being able start broken key repair near me or unlock when the fob has been used.
Most fobs have a plastic cover that can be opened up and safely cleaned with soap and 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 will not turn on or work. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery in a short time. If you are comfortable installing the battery yourself then you can buy the new one from an online store or hardware store and follow the steps on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The most likely scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks or tiny electronic components that are not completely connected to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded battery contact points. If any of the above is the case, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions on a replacement as well as assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and open the doors of your car. If they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be quite frustrating. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances it could require an even more complex repair. The first step is to identify why the fob doesn't work correctly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is interrupted. It is possible to reset this connection without needing a key fob repair service.
When the key fob is no longer sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions included with the key fob. It is also recommended to keep a spare car key in the event that your primary key fails.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting a strong enough signal from the car. This could be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. You can test the fob to see whether this is the cause by using a remote tester. If the tester doesn't blink when you press any of the buttons, it could be because the battery is in need of replacement or that the fob has been damaged.
Another reason why a fob not sending an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system is blocking it from doing so. This could happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle, or if there is an issue with the software.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it's not worth the effort to fix it, you should buy an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options, and some can be delivered directly to your home.