Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to many abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how much they are tossed around.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to fix. Certain key fob issues are more serious, and require assistance from a professional. This is when a locksmith can come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become pretty intelligent however, this doesn't mean that they won't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. However, this doesn't always fix the issue, since you may also have an issue with one of the battery connector terminals.
The car makers are aware of the potential problem, and they often add a second mechanical key in the fob to be used in the event of an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user manual for specifics). Pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is that you need to be much closer to your car to open and lock it than you did before. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter weakens as its battery ages and limits its operating range.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction that the previous one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it. This will ensure that the new battery is placed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by finding the latch, screw or switch in the back, and then tearing the fob off. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to harm it! If you're not confident in making this change yourself, you can also send your fob to an expert. Most auto shops will swap a fob's battery for a small fee, since it's such an everyday repair service. Some dealers may even offer it for free depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the fastest fix and will most likely fix the issue. If electronic car key repair isn't working after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.
Damage can occur to your car's key fob for many reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water or a damaged circuit board. These issues can stop your key from sending a signal to the receiver inside your car, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from locking. You may need to have a professional replace the fob if it's damaged.
The buttons on your device may have become worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They may also stop registering your presses. You can try wiping down the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue however, it's best to take the fob to have it professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you are using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for more information. If the battery is not the right one for your needs it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In some cases the issue could be in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system and you want to test it, you can do so by opening the door with the physical key and start the car with the inductive backup (if available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your car, have a mechanic inspect the electronic and receiver components of your car to see whether they're functioning properly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is made up of numerous components that function together and a single malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work it is important to look for obvious causes such as a cracked casing or a damaged component. Examine the horn, lights and other components of the car to ensure they're functioning properly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, you should get a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. It could be necessary to reprogram the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to send signals to the circuit board of the key fob however, these contacts may wear out over time. This is especially true when you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob can be worn out over time. This could lead to a button not working when it's pressed, or only working when it's press very hard. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is used.
Most fobs have the cover of plastic that can be opened up and then cleaned with soap and water. This is a great way to help restore a key fob's its original function and it's a good practice to clean it often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A damaged battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not work or turn on. Many mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the batteries in a short time however, if you're at ease doing it yourself you can buy a battery from an hardware store or 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 is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions for a replacement and assistance getting it programmed to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and open the doors of your car. When they stop working or fail to function, they can be quite frustrating. In some cases the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
One of the main reasons for a malfunctioning remote is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and car is damaged. You can sometimes reset this connection without needing an repair service for your key fob.
When the key fob is no longer sending a strong signal, other issues could occur. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions provided with the key fob. It is also recommended to have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key is lost.
The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be caused by an insufficient car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the cause by using the remote tester. If the tester does not illuminate when you press any of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is been damaged.
Another possible reason for the fob not sending the right signal is that the car's immobilizer system is hindering it from sending a strong signal. This can happen if your fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle or it's a software issue.
If you're unable to repair the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you need to purchase a new one. You can find low-cost options from many online retailers and some are even delivered to your door.