Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can become stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how they are jostled.
Fortunately, the majority of problems with the key fob are easy to resolve. Some key fob issues are more serious, and require professional assistance. This is where a locksmith can help.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten pretty smart however that doesn't mean they don't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. However, this doesn't always fix the issue, as you could also have an issue with one of the battery connector's terminals.
Car manufacturers are aware of this issue, and they frequently include a spare key mechanical inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to unlock the car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you need to be a lot closer to your car in order to open and lock it than before. This is because the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery dies which limits its range of operation.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase the button cell battery (which looks like tiny silver coins) for your fob and follow the user guide or video on how to take out the old one. After that, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the new battery is placed correctly.
Some key fobs are a little tricky to open but you should be able to open them by placing the latch, switch, or screw at the back of the fob, and prying it apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to operate your car! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself, you can also take your fob to an expert. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will swap the battery on the fob for a small fee. Some dealers might even do it for no cost dependent on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and will likely resolve the problem. If your device still does not work after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.
The damage to your car's key fob for many reasons, including physical trauma, water exposure or a damaged circuit board. These issues can prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver which can then stop the doors of your car and/or ignition from locking or even starting. If your fob is damaged, it's likely that you'll need an expert to repair the part or the entire device.
key fob repair service on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They can also stop registering your presses. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is recommended to get the fob examined by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you're using is compatible with 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 your fob for further details. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and providing sufficient power to internal components.
In some cases it could be a problem related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the door using the physical key and starting the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If your physical key does not open or start your car, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components to ensure they're working correctly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is made up of many parts that work together, and one failure can cause others to fail. If a keyfob stops working it is important to look for obvious causes such as a cracked casing or a broken component. Examine the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to ensure they're functioning correctly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's recommended to get a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix it. The fob might require reprogramming in the vehicle and this isn't something you can do at home, and requires special equipment to do this.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts that transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they can wear down over time. This is more likely when you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
In time the internal wiring inside the key fob could become worn down. It could result in the button not working when it is pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also cause the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
Most fobs come with a plastic cover which can be loosened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This can restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's an excellent idea for you to do it regularly to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A bad battery is the most common reason why the key fob will not turn on or work. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a battery from an hardware store or big-box retailer and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has 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 scenario, it's a great idea to speak with an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice on a replacement as well as assistance getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
Car key fobs are a handy option that lets you unlock your car's doors and then start the engine. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or appear to be working intermittently. In some cases the problem can be resolved by replacing the battery. In other circumstances, it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine why the fob doesn't work properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other problems can be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, try to resync the key to your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions included with the key fob. It's also recommended to carry an additional key to make use of it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This could be due to a weak car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob to determine if it's the problem. If the tester does not light up when one of the buttons is press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob is broken.
An immobilizer on your car may be preventing a fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if you have a software issue.
If you're unable to repair the fob or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you should purchase the new one. There are low-cost options from numerous online retailers and some are even delivered to your doorstep.