Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be subjected to a lot of abuse. Based on the way they're stored and how often they are moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to fix. But some are more serious and require assistance from a professional. A locksmith can be a great resource in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent, but that does not mean they do not sometimes get stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this happens. This won't fix the issue because it could be due to an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, and they frequently install a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just this kind of emergency. To access this, you can find the small release button or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for specifics). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob and gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you need to be much closer to the car to open and lock it than before. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery dies, limiting its range of operation.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You'll need the button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to take out the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same direction that the previous one was placed (the positive side should be facing upward towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch in the back, and then tearing the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll need it to work with your car! You can also take your key fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable making the change yourself. Because it's a standard procedure that most auto shops will replace the battery in fobs for a minimal fee. Some dealers may even do it for free, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.
car remote key repair near me can be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the receiver in your vehicle which can then stop the doors of your car and/or ignition from opening or even starting. If your fob is damaged, it's likely you will need an expert to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and cause the buttons to become less responsive or clicky and eventually, they'll start to fail to register your press accurately. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is recommended to examine the fob by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you are using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in a majority of hardware stores. Check the owner's manual 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 and providing sufficient power to internal components.
In the rarest of cases it could be the case that the issue isn't with your key fob but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if available). 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 is damaged
A key fob contains many components that work together and a single malfunction can cause other parts to fail. When a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's an obvious cause like a damaged or cracked case, or a malfunctioning internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the car to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
It is better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than attempt to repair it. It may be necessary to reprogram the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts that transmit signals to the circuit board of the key fob however, these contacts may wear out over time. This is more common when you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.
Over time, the internal wiring in the key fob may get worn out. It could result in a button that doesn't work when it is pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
The majority of fobs have the cover of plastic which can be loosened and then cleaned with water and soap. This can often bring a fob back to functioning properly and it's a good idea to do this regularly to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A bad battery is the primary reason why the key fob will not start or function. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you're confident in installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase an additional one from a big-box store or hardware store and follow the instructions on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The most likely scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded battery contact points. If any of these are the situation, it's a good idea to speak with an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions on a replacement and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and open the doors of your vehicle. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some cases, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. However, in other situations it may require a more complex repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is interrupted. The connection can be restored without the need for expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In any case, try to reconnect the key with your vehicle. You can do this by following the directions included with the key fob. You should also have a spare car keys in case the primary key fails.
The fob may not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due to weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the problem. If the tester does not light up when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also hinder a fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle or in the event of an issue with the software.
If you aren't able to resolve the issue, or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, then you should consider buying a new one. There are low-cost options from many online retailers and some can even be delivered to your door.