Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be subjected to many abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they're jostled, their buttons can be damaged or stuck.
Most key fob issues are fixable. Some key fob issues are more severe and require professional assistance. This is where locksmiths can come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite smart However, that doesn't mean they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding zone". When this happens, it's time to replace the battery. However, that's not always the solution to the issue, as you could also have an issue with one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a problem, and they often add a second mechanical key inside the fob for use in an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). By pressing this button, you will be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key you can use to unlock the car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is the fact that you have to be much closer to the car to unlock and open it than you did before. The transmitter of the fob loses power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase the button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and follow the directions in the user's manual to remove the old battery. After that, replace the new battery in the same way that the old one was placed (the positive side should be facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
Some key fobs can be difficult to open however, you should be able to do it by locating the latch, switch, or screw at the back of the fob and then prying it open. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to damage it! You could also take the fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Many auto shops will swap the battery of a fob for a nominal fee as it's an everyday repair service. Some dealers might even offer to do it for free depending on the model and make of the car.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device is not working after a battery change it may be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The damage to your car's key fob due to a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, water exposure, or a corroded circuit board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the vehicle's receiver which can then stop the doors of your car and/or ignition from unlocking or even starting. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
In the same way, the buttons on your device may have become worn-out over time due to repeated use. key fob repair near me may wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and may start to fail to register your pressing accurately. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined to make more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that is not an ideal match could have issues transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In rare instances it could be that the issue is not with your key fob but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the door using the physical key and start the car with the inductive backup (if there is). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components of your car to see if they are functioning correctly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of many parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob stops working it is important to check for obvious causes like cracked casings or a damaged component. It's also important to check other parts of the vehicle, such as the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged rather than try to repair it. The fob might require reprogramming to the car this is something that isn't something you can do at home, and requires special equipment to do this.
The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, these contacts may wear out over time. This is more likely if you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also wear out over time. It could result in the button not working when pressed, or only works when pressed very strongly. This can also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock when the fob is pressed.
Most fobs come with the cover of plastic that can be opened and then cleaned with soap and water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's recommended to clean it often to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A damaged battery is usually the reason the key fob will not turn on or function. Most mechanics and car dealers can replace the battery quickly. If you're comfortable with the installation and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase a new one at the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board, or bent or corroded battery contact points. If any of these are the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice on a replacement 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 unlock the doors of your car. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify the reason for the fob not functioning correctly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning remote is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. The connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This can happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided on the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry a spare key with you to utilize it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving an adequate signal from the car. This could be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to determine if this is the issue by using the remote tester. If the tester does not blink when you press one of the buttons, it could be because the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is broken.
Another possible reason for the fob not transmitting the right signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be blocking it. This can occur if your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you can't fix the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should purchase an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some can be delivered directly to your home.