How to repair key fob mobile car key repair Key Fobs
Even though we use them a lot, key fobs are not indestructible. They are able to be destroyed in various ways.
While the most common problem is a dead battery, other issues can be much more grave. Many of problems can be fixed by a quick fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is likely the most common reason why the car key fob stops functioning. Fob batteries drain quickly, especially if they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. It is a good idea to keep an additional fob battery in your wallet just in case.
It is easy to tell that the battery in your car key fob is depleted by the fact that the LED light will stop glowing. It's also possible that your key fob won't work at the same distance it used to. In this case the key fob could need to be programmed again or replaced altogether.
Fortunately the replacement of the battery in a car key fob is simple. Find out the type of battery that is used. The type should be embossed on the back of the fob. Google can help in case you're unsure. Open the key fob along the seam after you've identified the battery type. Use a flathead screwdriver, or even your fingernail to separate the two halves. Then, take out the old battery and put an alternative one in its place. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that their fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons don't respond. This can be fixed by reprogramming your fob. However, it can be time-consuming and expensive. Another option is to call roadside assistance and ask them to jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.
If you've tried all the options but your vehicle doesn't start, it's the right time to contact a professional. A certified technician will be able to determine if the vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or the fob simply requires a new battery. They can also suggest an auto shop to replace your key fob. In the end, though, sometimes a brand new fob is the best solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob is able to withstand some physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these components to ensure your key fob remains in good working order.
Check that the battery is still working on your key fob. If it is replaced, determine if this fixes the problem. If not, you may require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be difficult because some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to unlock them and you could damage your fob if you try to pull it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or damaged key circuit board for the fob is another common problem. This can be caused by various factors, including dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or an accident firmware update could be the cause of this. If your key fob isn't working, you may think about getting it replaced. This can be done by a locksmith who is skilled in this work.
Radio interference is also a possibility. This could happen when you have other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency, for example, radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation you need to get in touch with the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
You may also need to replace a switch or an electrical component of your key fob. There are online guides that guide you through the process of fixing this yourself. Be careful when doing this, however, because the circuit board inside the key fob is tiny and could easily break if handled with care. If you do this yourself, make certain to use a top quality SMT switch and then solder it in place correctly.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs can suffer lots of wear and tear. They're susceptible to being dropped, and they often are frequently moving around in your pocket or purse. This jostling can sometimes cause buttons to wear out or get stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Most modern key fobs have sensors on them that detect if they've been pressed. They're made to do this to reduce the likelihood of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when you press them, they're worn out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board inside the key fob also sends signals to your remote car key repairs. Those signals include commands to unlock and lock and commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged, then the key fob you have may not be able to unlock your vehicle or start the engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt or something that scratches the circuit board.
If you're forced to press the buttons harder than usual to get them to function, then your key fob buttons are becoming worn out. The fob may not be sending signals to your vehicle or have a shorter range.
If you're not able to unlock your key fob, unlock or start your car, you need to find a locksmith near you immediately. They can tell if the key fob is damaged or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, most car keyfob issues aren't very complicated or even serious. The best way to ensure you don't get caught off guard by a malfunctioning key fob is to have an extra key in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're not stuck in a bind due to a lost or malfunctioning key. If you lose your spare key, an expert locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They'll also be able repair car key fob (recent myrick-clements.blogbright.net blog post) any internal damage that may have occurred to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of your key fob is more than just a place to store the buttons and battery. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic every time you press the key fob button. This board takes the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.
Your key fob will not function if the board is damaged. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead will just need to be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.
Batteries could be the cause your key fob's battery not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The positive side is that you can get an alternative battery online or at your local auto parts store since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are several ways to open up a key fob and get inside it, based on the kind. A quick internet search should show you which type of key fob you have and what kind of battery it takes. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
When repairing a broken key fob, the main concern is not to destroy the circuit or buttons in any way. If you attempt to pry apart the key fob using a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could break the plastic or break the case. A replacement case is inexpensive and you can purchase the entire fob including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob isn't functioning look into whether the batteries are dead or if the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and inexpensively by an expert. In the event that it isn't, it's the time to purchase an upgrade. Make sure you check the warranty of any fob replacement or used that you purchase on the internet.