Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be damaged. Based on the way they're stored and how often they are jostled, their buttons can get stuck or damaged.
Most key fob problems are simple to fix. But some are more serious and will require professional help. A locksmith can be a great resource in these cases.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite smart however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". If this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. It's not a solution because it could be due to an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently install an extra mechanical key inside the fob for use in such an emergency. To gain access to this, find the small release button or latch located behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this button, you will be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key you can use to unlock the car.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is that you need to be a lot closer to your car in order to open and lock it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way as the original one (the positive side facing up towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the new battery is installed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be difficult to open but you should be able to open them by locating the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob and then tearing it apart. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to harm it! You can also take your fob to a professional in case you're not comfortable making it your own. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will swap the battery inside the fob for a small charge. Some dealers might even be willing to do it for free depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
Replace the batteries if your key fob doesn't work. This is the quickest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
The car key fob could be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a damaged or corroded board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the vehicle's receiver which can then stop the doors of your car and/or ignition from locking or starting. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device could have become worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky', and they can start to fail to register your pressing accurately. You can try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem, but it's usually best to take the fob to be professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores. You must always consult the owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what kind of battery it requires. If the battery isn't the right fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals and providing enough power to internal components.
In rare instances the issue could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the doors with a physical key and then starting the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, have a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they're working correctly.
Fob Damaged
A key fob contains numerous components that function together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a keyfob stops working it is important to look for obvious causes such as cracks in the casing or a damaged part. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the car to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
It's better to replace the key fob if it's damaged rather than try to repair it. It might 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 to transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board however, these contacts can wear down over time. This is more common when you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob may also wear out over time. This could lead to the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when pressing very hard. It could also cause the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
Most fobs have a plastic cover that can be opened and cleaned using water and soap. This is often able to restore a key fob to its original function and it's a great idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A bad battery is the primary reason why the key fob will not turn on or work. Most mechanics and car dealers can replace the battery quickly. If key car repair in installing the battery yourself, you can purchase a new one at an online store or hardware store and follow the instructions on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If you find any of these problems you should contact an auto locksmith or a dealer to get a replacement key fob as well as assistance 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 a hassle. In some cases the problem can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other cases, it might require a more complex repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and the car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
Other issues could arise when the key fob no longer sends a strong signal. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an additional key in case you need to make use of it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
The fob might not receive a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to determine whether this is the problem by using the remote tester. If the tester does not light up when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be damaged.
Another reason that the fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system is blocking it. This could be the case in the event that your key fob isn't been properly programmed or there is a software problem.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you need to purchase a new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options and some can be delivered directly to your home.