How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we test them a lot keys are not impervious to destruction. They are able to break down in various ways.
While the most common problem is an unresponsive battery but other issues can be much more grave. Most of these issues can be solved with a quick fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the main reason for the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially when they are exposed to extreme heat or humid temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
The LED light will typically cease to blink when the battery in your car key fob is low. It is also possible that the fob won't work from the same distance it did in the past. In this scenario, it may be necessary to reprogram the key fob or replace it altogether.
It is easy to replace a car keyfob battery. Find out the type of battery used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. Google can assist you when you're not sure. Once you've identified the kind of battery you want, open the key fob at the junction. Use a flathead screwdriver, or your fingernail to break the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one. Place the new battery in such a way that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers may not be aware their fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons don't respond. This can be corrected by reprogramming your fob. However it could be costly and time-consuming. 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 of these options and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time to call an expert. A qualified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires reconfiguring, or if your key fob is only in need of replacement batteries. They can also suggest an auto shop that will replace the fob that you use to access your car. Sometimes an entirely new fob could be the best solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob is able to withstand a lot of physical abuse and isn't indestructible. Battery, circuit board and buttons are all subject to wear and wear and tear. It is essential to take care of these parts to ensure your key fob remains in good condition.
Check that the battery is still functioning on your key fob. If it is then replace the battery and see if that fixes your issue. If this does not work, you may need to open the fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be tricky since some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to unlock them and you may damage your fob if you try to force it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however it is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer where to repair car key remote avoid damaging it.
A damaged or corrupted key circuit board for the fob is another common problem. This can be caused by various factors, including dirt or moisture entering the battery compartment. Software issues or an accident firmware update could be the cause of this. If your key fob has stopped functioning, you might want to consider having it changed. This can be accomplished by a locksmith who is skilled in this work.
Radio interference is a different possibility. This can occur when you have other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, you should inquire with the other manufacturers of your device to make sure that your key fob isn't being affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob may have an issue with the switch or another electrical component that must be replaced. You can find online guides that will show you how to fix this yourself. It's important to be careful when you do this because the circuit boards inside your key fob are small and are susceptible to breaking when handled rough. If you're doing it yourself, be sure to use an SMT switch that is of high-quality and put the switch in the correct position.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs can suffer quite a bit of wear and wear and tear. They are more prone to being dropped and spend a lot of time being tossed around in your purse or pocket. This jostling can sometimes cause the buttons to wear out or become stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the issue.
Most modern key fobs have sensors on them that can detect when they've been used. They're designed to do this so that they can decrease the chance of someone stealing your car. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding when you press them, that's an indication that they're worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also contain an internal circuit board which transmits signals to your mobile car key repair. These signals include unlock and lock commands, as well as commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged then your key fob may not unlock your vehicle or start the engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt, or something scratching the circuit board.
You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are wearing out when you press more than normal in order to get them working. Additionally your fob could cease transmitting signals to the car or it'll have a lower range than it did before.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you're unable to use your key fob to start your vehicle. They can determine if the key fob is damaged, or if the cylinder in your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, most car keyfob problems aren't too difficult or serious. The best way to ensure you don't get surprised by an issue with your key fob is to keep an extra key in your possession at all times. You'll never be stranded due to an unresponsive or lost key. If you have lost your spare key, an expert locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They'll also be able fix any internal damage that has occurred on your key fob.
Broken Case
A key fob's case provides more than just protection for the battery and buttons. It also houses the circuit board responsible for doing all of the electrical magic when you press the button on your key fob. This board takes the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.
Your key fob will not function if the board is damaged. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead can be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or the dealership can help you with.
Another reason your key fob may not be working is because the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The positive side is that you can find an alternative battery online or at your local auto parts shop since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
There are a variety of ways to open a key fob to get inside, based on the kind. You can determine what type of battery your key fob is using by doing a quick online search. You can then purchase a new replacement and pop the old one out and then insert the new one in.
When fixing a damaged key fob, the primary concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons further. If you attempt to pry off the key fob with an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it can crack the plastic or break the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can purchase an entire fob, including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob won't function, make sure you have damaged the circuit board or batteries. If this isn't the situation, a professional could repair car keys near me it quickly and inexpensively. If not, it might be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty on any replacement or used fobs purchased online.