Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be damaged. Based on the way they're stored and how often they're moved around, their buttons could be damaged or stuck.
Most key fob issues are fixable. Some key fob issues are more severe and require expert assistance. This is when locksmiths can help.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten pretty intelligent however, it doesn't mean they can't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. But that doesn't always solve the issue, since you could also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car makers are aware of the potential problem, and they often include a mechanical key inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for specifics). By pressing this button, you will be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you have to be closer to your car in order to open and lock it than you did before. This is because the fob's transmitter loses strength when its battery dies and limits its range of operation.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. You'll need a button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the new battery was installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch in the back, and then tearing the fob apart. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to damage it! If you're not confident making this change yourself it's also possible to send your fob to a professional. Most auto shops will swap a fob's battery for a small fee because it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers may even be willing to do it for free depending on the model and brand of your car.
Fob Isn't Working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it does not work. This is the fastest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device is not functioning after a battery change, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
The damage to your car key fob for many reasons including physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the vehicle's receiver and prevent your car's doors and/or ignition from locking or even starting. If your fob is damaged, it's likely you will need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
Similarly, the buttons on your device may have worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and make the buttons less responsive or clicky, and they can start to fail to register your pressing accurately. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is usually best to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a exact match for your fob. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or in most hardware stores. You must always refer to your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. A battery that is not an ideal match could have problems transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.
In rare cases it could be a problem in the vehicle's electronic parts 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 starting 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, have a mechanic inspect the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is made up of a variety of parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases functioning, it is important to determine whether there's an obvious cause like a cracked case or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also crucial to examine other components of the vehicle, such as the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's recommended to get a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of trying to fix it. It may be necessary to reprogramme the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they will wear down over time. This is most common when the fob is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
As time passes the internal wiring inside the key fob may become worn down. This can result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only can be used when pressed extremely strongly. read on could also result in the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is activated.
The majority of key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This is often able to bring a fob back to proper function and it's a good idea to do this often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A bad battery is the most common reason that the 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're comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a new battery at a hardware store or big-box retailer and follow instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded battery contact points. If you find any of these problems, you should consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to get a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and open the doors of your car. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some instances the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases, it could involve an intricate repair. The first step is to identify the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and your car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for costly key fob repair.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync the key to your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions included with 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 isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be caused by an insufficient car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. With a remote tester, you can test the fob to check if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester doesn't illuminate when one of the buttons is press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
The immobilizer in your car could be preventing the fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or in the event of a software issue.
If you're unable to repair the fob or it's not worth the effort to fix it, you should buy the new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some can be delivered to your residence.