Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Based on the way they're stored and how often they get moved around, their buttons could become stuck or broken.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are simple to solve. Some key fob issues are more serious, and require assistance from a professional. A locksmith can be a great resource in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs are quite smart however this doesn't mean that they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. This won't fix the issue since there may be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they often put 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 more details). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.
You'll also need to be nearer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user guide to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way as the old one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch on the back and prying the fob off. Be careful not to break the fob because you'll need it to work with your car! You could also take the fob to an expert in case you're not comfortable making the change yourself. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will swap the battery inside the fob for a small fee. Some dealers may even offer it for free depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
Replace the batteries if your key fob doesn't work. This is the easiest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your fob is still not working after a battery change it could be due damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
The key fob in your car can be damaged due to many reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded or damaged board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver which can then stop your car's doors and/or ignition from unlocking or starting. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely you will need an expert to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky', and they can start to fail to register your press accurately. You can try wiping down the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this fixes the problem, but it's usually best to take the fob to be professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in many hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and supplying sufficient power to internal components.
In very rare cases it could be the case that the problem is not the key fob itself but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if available). If your physical key does not allow you to start your car, make sure a mechanic check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they're working correctly.
Fob that is damaged
A key fob is made up of numerous components that work together and a single failure could cause others to fail. If car key fob repair near me ceases functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's a clear cause like a damaged or cracked case, or a broken internal component. It's also important to check other parts of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.
It is better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged rather than attempt to repair it. The fob could need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle, which is something that isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment for doing so.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to send signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, these contacts will wear down over time. This is more likely when you drop the device or leave it in hot weather.
Over time, the internal wiring in the key fob may get worn out. This could result in the button not working when it's pressed, or only functioning when it's press extremely hard. This could also lead to the car not being able to start or unlock when the fob has been used.
The majority of fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened and cleaned using water and soap. This can help restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's recommended to clean it frequently to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
A damaged battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not work or turn on. Most mechanics and car dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase a new one at an online store or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks in the case, tiny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of these is the case, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions for a replacement and assistance to program 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. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to be working intermittently. In some instances, the issue can be resolved by replacing the battery. In other cases, it might require a more complex repair. The first step is to identify why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning remote is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is interrupted. You can sometimes reset this connection without needing repair of your key fob.
When the key fob is not sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This could happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions that come with the key fob. It's also recommended to carry an extra key in case you need to use it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving a strong enough signal from the car. This can be due to a weak battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the problem. If the tester does not blink when you press any of the buttons, it may be that the battery has to be replaced or that the fob is been damaged.
Another possible reason for the fob not sending an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be blocking it from doing so. This could be the case when your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it's not worth the effort to fix it, you should buy the new one. You can find affordable options from many online retailers and some are even delivered to your doorstep.
