10 Quick Tips On Key Fob Repair Service
Key Fob Repair ServiceKey fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Most key fob issues are simple to fix. However, some issues are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when locksmiths come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite intelligent however that doesn't mean that they don't occasionally become 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 problem, because you may also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and often add a second mechanical key inside the fob to be used in an emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user's manual to find out more). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key that you can use to open the car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be closer to your car in order to unlock and open it than you did before. This is because the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery dies and limits the range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same direction that the previous one was inserted (the positive side should face upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to be certain the new battery was installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by locating the latch, screw or switch on the back, and then tearing the fob off. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to damage it! You can also take your fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Many auto shops will swap batteries for fobs for a small fee, since it's such an everyday repair service. Some dealers may even offer it for free, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
Replace the batteries if the key fob does not work. This is the quickest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device does not work after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
Your car key fob can be damaged due to a variety of reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded or damaged board. These problems can prevent your key from sending the signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which could cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from opening. 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 keychain may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and eventually, they'll start to fail to register your press accurately. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is recommended to get the fob examined by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that isn't an ideal match could have problems transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In the rarest of cases it could be the case that the issue isn't with your key fob but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the doors with a physical key and then beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your car check with a mechanic the electronic and receiver components of your car to see whether they're working properly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob has many parts that work together, and one failure can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause like a damaged or cracked case, or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also crucial to examine other areas of the vehicle like the horn and lights to see whether those are working normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's recommended to get a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of trying to fix it. It may be necessary to reprogram the fob for the car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob can wear out. This is particularly true if the fob is dropped or left in hot weather.
In time, the internal wiring in the key fob could wear down. It could result in the button not working when pressed, or only is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
The majority of key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's an excellent idea to clean it regularly to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A bad battery is the main reason why the key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you're comfortable with the installation then you can buy an additional one from the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube car key fob repair or in the owner's manual.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board, or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of these are the situation, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice on a replacement as well as assistance getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it could require an intricate repair. The first step is to determine the reason for the fob not functioning correctly.
The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your car is interrupted. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other issues could occur. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions that came on the key fob. It is also recommended to carry a spare car key in case the primary key is lost.
It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive an adequate signal from the car. This can be due to an insufficient battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to determine whether this is the problem by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't blink when you press one of the buttons, it could be that the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is broken.
The immobilizer in your car could hinder the fob from sending a strong signal. This can happen if your fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or it's a software problem.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, then look into buying a replacement. You can find low-cost options from many online retailers and some are even delivered to your door.