Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home
If your remote vehicle key repairs fob stops working, you may be tempted to go to an authorized dealer to get it changed. Try a few quick fixes at your home.
Start with a replacement battery. Hardware stores carry flat watch-style batteries that are inexpensive and easy to find. Examine the key fob for buttons that are damaged or aren't in the right place.
Dead Battery
The key fob is a tiny electronic device that makes it easy to lock or unlock your car. It is an electronic radio transmitter that sends codes to a receiver inside your car. Key fob batteries typically last for a long period of time, but they can die at any time. Look for the LED light or press one of the buttons to determine whether it's dead. If the key fob does not respond, then the battery is dead and has to replaced.
It is quick and easy to replace the battery on your key fob. It's typically a matter of opening the fob and pulling out the battery that was in use, and then installing a new one. Fobs use small batteries, like those used in watches or hearing aids and are available at all kinds of stores and home improvement centers. They're usually shaped like tiny coins with a plus and minus symbol on the bottom. If you're not sure what kind of battery your key fob takes, consult the owner's manual, or look on the fob's own for a label.
Your key fob should work normally. However, if it doesn't it could be due to a different problem with your car or its system that's making the fob fail to work properly. If this is the situation, you'll need help from a roadside service to assist you with the issue.
You could be able to purchase replacement key fobs from a retailer or online, based on the model and make of your car. It's typically cheaper and more convenient to purchase an entirely new key fob rather than to repair car key fob a broken one.
Buttons Are Unresponsive
If you've been driving your car for a while and notice that the buttons on your keys are not functioning it could be due to an issue with worn out buttons or sensors. The buttons that are made of rubber on most fobs wear out over time. This may cause them to work correctly if you press them in a certain manner or under extreme pressure. This is a common issue with a lot of fobs and is easily fixed by following some simple DIY steps.
To unlock the car the fob transmits a signal to the receiver in the car. If the receiver is damaged, it may not receive the signal and the key won't operate to unlock or start your car. The best option is to have a local mechanic check out the receiver for damage. In most cases, this will be free or a small fee dependent on the model of your car.
It's not surprising that key fobs are often used and jostled in pockets and purses. They can become a bit finicky, and only work properly if pressed in a specific way. It is easy to fix most fobs, because the buttons are reinforced with silicone and a little bit of effort.
Press and hold the lock or unlock buttons on your keyfob until you hear the car chime. This will need to be done several times to activate the button. Next, cycle your key in and out of the ignition a several times to reset the fob's connection with the car. Once the connection is restored, release the key and you will be able to unlock your car using the remote. Repeat the procedure as needed to ensure that your fob is functioning again. If you are not able to repair the fob following this procedure it could need to be replaced completely. If you decide to replace it, make sure that the new key is programmed to work with your car model and make.
Keychain Loop Breaks
If the key fob's plastic keychain loop is damaged, it can separate from your keys and no longer be used to lock or unlock your car. The keychain loop can be easily replaced.
Key fobs can also malfunction because of water or moisture damage. The signs include a decreased range of operation, or even no function at any time. The issue can be fixed by replacing the battery and drying the key fob, but in some cases professional repair or replacement may be required.
Key fob buttons may wear out over time, resulting in reduced functionality or unresponsiveness. This might require an entirely new key fob case or replacement of the button, however often the problem is solved by changing the programming. Occasionally signals from nearby electronic devices could interfere with the connection between the key fob and your car, leading to problems with locking or unlocking. It is possible to conduct a diagnostic check at the dealership in order to troubleshoot. This is typically the case with older electronic keys that rely on infrared signals for operation and require a line-of-sight. Most modern microchipped keys communicate with your car remote key fob repair using radio frequency to authorize a challenge.
Lost or Corrupted Pairing
Over time keys fob batteries deplete their charge. If the battery has lost all of its power the remote will not respond to commands. Replacing the battery will usually solve the issue, however you may also have to change the programming of the remote.
Key fobs used in modern cars can perform a range of functions. They can adjust the height of windows, turn off alarms, turn on the interior lights, or even start some cars. It is easy for car owners to press the wrong buttons by accident. It is recommended to keep your owner's manual close while using your key fob, to be able to refer to the specific sections that cover the various functions of your car.
Another common reason for the fob to cease working is that the remote's signal has been corrupted or gone missing. Certain of the latest key fobs have sophisticated encryption technology to stop thieves from stealing the signals and making remotes or keys that aren't authorized that can unlock your car. To reprogram the fob you'll need to go to a dealer or auto locksmith.
Some automakers provide their own instructions for reprogramming the key fob of their vehicles. These procedures are often simple enough to be done at home. However, this is generally not a good choice for beginners without extensive electronic experience. It is best to leave this sort of work to professionals.
Key fobs can suffer wear and tear when they're used and handled regularly. The buttons on a fob may be tossed around and the case could crack or break. Keep a spare fob with you at all time. This will help you save time if your remote breaks down while you're out and out and about. It is ideal to keep it by your bed in the evening, as it will allow you to activate the panic button when you hear noises in the house at night.