Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they're knocked around, their buttons may be damaged or stuck.
Most key fob issues are fixable. However, there are some that are more complicated and require expert assistance. This is where a locksmith can help.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become pretty smart however, it doesn't mean they can't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this happens. However, that's not always the solution to the issue, since you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they usually install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. To access this, find the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user manual for specifics). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is the fact that you have to be much closer to the car to open and lock it than you did before. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and relatively inexpensive. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and follow the directions in the user manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing up towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it. This will ensure that the new battery is installed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be a little tricky to open, but you should be able to do it by placing the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and prying it apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to work with your vehicle! You can also take your key fob to an expert if you are not comfortable doing it yourself. Most auto shops will swap batteries for fobs for a nominal fee because it's a common repair service. Some dealers may even offer it for free dependent on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it does not work. This is the quickest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device isn't working after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
The car key fob could be damaged due to a variety of reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a damaged or corroded board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from locking. If your fob is damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your fob may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber may wear out, making the buttons less clicky or springy. They can also cease to register your presses. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is usually best to examine the fob by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you must always refer to your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which kind of battery it requires. A battery that is not an ideal match could be unable to transmit strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.
In rare instances it could be that the issue isn't the key fob itself but more 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 with the inductive backup system (if there is). If repair broken car key does not work or open your car, have a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they are working properly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob is made up of many parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious like a damaged or cracked case, or a broken internal component. Check the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to ensure they're functioning correctly.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged rather than try to repair it. It might be necessary to reprogramme the fob for the car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, they will wear down over time. This is particularly true if the fob gets dropped or left in hot temperatures.
Over time the internal wiring inside a key fob can also wear down. This can result in buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is used.
Most key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned safely with soap and warm water. This is a great way to bring a fob back to proper function and it's a good idea to do it regularly to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A bad battery is the primary reason why the key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you are 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 directions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
The worst-case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't completely connected to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If you observe any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain a new key fob as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
Car key fobs are a handy option that lets you unlock your car doors and begin the engine. When they stop working or fail to function, they can be quite frustrating. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery but in other cases it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is interrupted. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
Other issues can occur when the key fob isn't able to sends a clear signal. 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 reconnect the key to your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions that come with the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an additional key in case you need to make use of it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be due to a weak battery in the car, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and determine if it's the problem. If the tester doesn't illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it could be because the battery is in need of replacement or that the fob is broken.
Another reason why the fob not transmitting a strong enough signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it from doing so. This can occur in the event that your key fob isn't been programmed correctly or if there's a software issue.
If you can't fix the fob or it's not worth the effort to repair it, you need to purchase the new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options, and some can be delivered directly to your home.