Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break based on how they are stored and how often they are jostled.
Most key fob issues are fixable. But some are more serious and require expert assistance. A locksmith can be a great resource in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this happens. However, that's not always the solution to the problem, because you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they usually put a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just this kind of emergency. To access this, locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this button, you can open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to unlock your car.
Another indication that your fob's batteries are dying is that you have to be closer to your car to unlock and open it than you did before. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter loses strength as its battery ages, limiting its range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is placed correctly.
Some key fobs can be a little tricky to open but you should be able to do it by finding the latch, switch, or screw at 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 damage it! You could also take the fob to an expert in case you're not comfortable making the change yourself. Since it's a common service that most auto shops will replace the battery on the fob for a small cost. Some dealers will even do it for no cost, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it doesn't work. This is the quickest fix and will most likely fix the issue. If your fob is still not functioning after a battery change, it could be due damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
The damage to your car key fob due to a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a damaged circuit board. These issues can prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver and prevent your car's doors or ignition from opening or turning on. If your fob is damaged, it's likely you will need an expert to repair the part or the entire device.
Similarly, the buttons on your device could have become worn-out over time due to repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less responsive or clicky and may begin to fail to register your press accurately. Try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue, but it's usually best to take the fob to be professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the battery you're using is a exact match to your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in most hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If key fob repairs near me isn't the correct fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In very rare cases, it could be that the problem is not with your key fob, but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the doors with a physical key and then beginning the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle check with a mechanic the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob contains numerous components that are interconnected and a single failure could cause other parts to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious like a cracked case or a damaged internal component. It's also important to check 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 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.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is especially common if the fob gets dropped or left in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also wear out over time. This can result in the button not functioning when it's pressed, or only working when it's pressing very hard. This could also lead to the car not being able to start or unlock once the fob is used.
The majority of fobs have the cover of plastic that can be opened and then cleaned with water and soap. This can often help restore a key fob's proper function and it's a great idea to do this regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.
A bad battery is the main reason why a key fob won't turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you are confident in installing the battery yourself, you can purchase an additional one from an online store or a hardware store, and follow the instructions on YouTube or in your owner's guide.
The most likely scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks or tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit boards or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If any of the above is the case, it's a good idea to speak with an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions on a replacement as well as assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are a handy feature that lets you unlock your car doors and then start the engine. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be a hassle. In some cases, the problem may 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 why the fob isn't working properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is interrupted. This connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other issues could be experienced. This could happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your car. This can be done by following the instructions that came on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare key with you in case you need to make use of it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's possible that the fob doesn't receive an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to a weak battery in the car, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see whether this is the cause by using an external tester. If the tester does not blink when you press any of the buttons, it may be because the battery is in need of replacement or the fob is been damaged.
The immobilizer in your car could be preventing a fob from sending out a strong signal. This can occur if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly, or if there is a software problem.
If you can't fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should purchase an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some can be delivered right to your home.