Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're stored and how often they're moved around, their buttons could be damaged or stuck.
Most key fob problems are fixable. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require professional assistance. Locksmiths can be of great help in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become quite intelligent, but it doesn't mean they can't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. However, that's not always the solution to the issue, since there could be an issue with one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a issue, and often install an extra mechanical key in the fob to be used in such an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob, and then gain access to the physical key, which you can use to unlock your car key remote repair.
You will also need to be nearer to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob loses power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. Be sure to purchase a button cell battery (which appears to be like an incredibly small silver coin) for your fob, and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to ensure that the new battery was placed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch on the back and prying the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to operate your car! If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, you can also send your fob to an expert. Most auto shops will swap the battery of a fob at a minimal cost as it's an everyday repair service. Some dealers may even be willing to complete the task for free based on the model and brand of the car.
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 easiest fix and most likely what can fix the issue. If your device isn't working after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
Damage can happen to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons including physical trauma, water exposure, or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver in your car, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from locking. You may need to get a professional replacement for your key if it's damaged.
The buttons on your fob might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They also may stop registering your presses. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to examine the fob by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you are using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list on the internet 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 a perfect match can have issues transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.
In very rare cases it could be that the problem is not the key fob itself but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using an actual key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if there is). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your vehicle then a mechanic should inspect the electronic components and receiver of your car to see whether they're working properly.
Fob Damaged
A key fob is comprised of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to examine the cause for obvious reasons such as cracks in the casing or a broken component. It's also essential to examine other parts of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.
If the fob for your key is damaged, you should obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto key fob Repair locksmith instead of trying to fix it. It could be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts that transmit signals to the circuit board of the key fob however, they may wear out over time. This is especially true if you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob may also become worn out over time. This can result in the button not working when pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
The majority of key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned safely with soap and warm water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original function. It's also a good idea to clean it regularly to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A bad battery is the primary reason why the key fob won't start or function. Most car dealers and mechanics can replace the batteries quickly, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself, you can buy a battery at the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board, or bent or corroded battery contact points. If any of these is the situation, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for advice on a replacement and help 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. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some cases, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. In other cases, it might require a more complicated repair key. The first step is to figure out the reason for the fob not functioning properly.
The most common reason for a fob not working is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and the car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key repair service fob repair.
Other issues can occur when the key fob no more sends a clear signal. This could happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the directions provided on the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry a spare key with you to utilize it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be caused by weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. With a remote key repairs tester, you can test the fob to check if it's the issue. If the tester does not illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery needs to be replaced or that the fob has been damaged.
Another reason why the fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system is preventing it from doing so. This can happen if your fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or it's a software problem.
If you can't fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you should purchase an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some can be delivered right to your home.