Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Based on the way they're stored and how often they are jostled, their buttons can become stuck or broken.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. However, some issues are more serious and require expert assistance. This is when locksmiths can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite smart however, this doesn't mean that they won't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. However, that's not always the solution to the problem, because you could also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car makers are aware of the possibility of a issue, and frequently include a mechanical key in the fob to be used in an emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob, and then gain access to the physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you have to be much closer to the car to open and lock it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses power when the battery dies. This reduces its range.
The replacement of the battery is simple and fairly inexpensive. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which is similar to the size of a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same direction that the old one was placed (the positive side should be facing upward towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its lock/unlock and start functions to be certain the battery was installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by locating the latch, screw or switch at the back and prying the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, because you'll need it to work with your car! You can also take the key fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will swap the battery in the fob for a small cost. Some dealers may even offer it for free, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the most straightforward solution and will solve the issue. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.
Your car key fob can be damaged for many reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a damaged or corroded board. These issues could stop your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which could then prevent your car's ignition or doors from opening. If your fob is damaged, it's likely you will need an expert to replace the component or the entire device.
Similarly, the buttons on your fob may have become worn-out over time due to repeated use. Rubber can wear out, making the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your press. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem, but it's usually best to take the fob to a professional examined for more comprehensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a perfect match for your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or in most hardware stores. You must always refer to your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. A battery that is not a perfect match can have issues transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.
In rare instances it could be that the problem is not the key fob itself but rather 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 using the inductive backup system (if there is). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, have an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they're functioning properly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob is made up of many components that work together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. When a key fob stops functioning, it is important to determine whether there's a cause obvious like a cracked case or a damaged internal component. It's also crucial to examine other areas of the vehicle like the horn and lights to see whether those are working normally.
It is better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than attempt to repair it. The fob might need to be reprogrammed to the car this is something that can't usually be done at home, and it requires specialized equipment to do this.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is particularly true if the fob is dropped or left in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob could be worn out over time. It can lead to a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able start or unlock when the fob has been used.
The majority of key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original function. It's an excellent idea for you to do it often to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
A damaged battery is usually the reason the key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself, you can purchase a new one at the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the instructions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
Car key fobs are a handy feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and start the engine. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to be working intermittently. In some instances, the issue can be resolved by replacing the battery. In other situations it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine why the fob isn't functioning properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This could happen if remote key repairs the connection between your remote and your car is broken. The connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a strong signal, other problems can occur. This can happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be accomplished by following the directions on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key to make use of it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
It's possible that the fob isn't receiving an adequate signal from the car. This could be caused by weak car batteries or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob to determine if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester doesn't light up when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
An immobilizer on your car may be preventing the fob from sending a strong signal. This could be the case if your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you're unable to solve the issue or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, then look into buying a replacement. You can find affordable options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your doorstep.