Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're kept and how often they're moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Fortunately, the majority of problems with the key fob are simple to solve. However, some issues are more serious and require expert assistance. Locksmiths can be a huge help in these cases.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent However, that doesn't mean they won't sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. This doesn't solve the problem because it could be due to an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in the case of an emergency. To access this, find the small release button or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for details). Pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to open the car.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is the fact that you have to be closer to your car to open and lock it than before. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery is depleted and limits the range of operation.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. Be sure to purchase the button cell battery (which appears to be like a tiny silver coin) for your fob and follow the user's manual or video instructions on how to take out the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the original one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by looking for the latch, screw, or switch at the back and then prying the fob off. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to damage it! If you're not confident in making this change yourself, you can also send your fob to an expert. Since it's a common service that most auto shops will replace the battery in the fob for a small cost. Some dealers might even do it for free dependent on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and most likely what can fix the issue. If your fob is still not functioning after a battery change, it may be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
Damage can happen to your car's key fob due to a variety of 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 in your vehicle, which could then prevent your car's ignition or doors from locking. You may have to get a professional replacement for your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device could have worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky', and they can start to fail to register your presses reliably. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue however, it's recommended to send the fob to a professional evaluated for more thorough repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in a majority of hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on your fob for more information. A battery that isn't an ideal match could have problems transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.
In rare cases it could be a problem related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if available). If your physical key does not work or open your car, you should have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components to ensure they're working correctly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob contains many parts that function together, and one failure can cause others to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work it is important to look for obvious causes such as a cracked casing or a damaged part. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the car to ensure they're working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, it's recommended to find a replacement at your dealer or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. It could be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they will wear down over time. This is most common when the fob gets dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also become worn out over time. This could lead to the button not functioning when it's pressed or only functioning when it's press very hard. remote key fob repair can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is activated.
The majority of key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can restore a keyfob to its original function. It's recommended for you to do it often to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
A damaged battery is the primary reason that the key fob won't start or function. Most car dealers and mechanics are able to replace the batteries in a short time however, if you're at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a new battery from the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or corroded or bent battery contact points. If you observe any of these problems, you should consult an auto locksmith or dealer to get a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or appear to work intermittently. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery but in other situations it may require an intricate repair. The first step is to determine the reason for the fob not functioning properly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning remote is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is broken. You may be able to reset this connection without having to call repair of your key fob.
Other issues can occur when the key fob no longer sends a clear signal. This could be the result of a 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 on the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry a spare key with you to utilize it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive an adequate signal from the car. This can be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the problem by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't light up when you press one of the buttons, it could be a sign that the battery needs to be replaced or that the fob is been damaged.
Another possible reason for the fob not transmitting an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system is blocking it from doing so. This could be the case in the event that your key fob isn't been programmed correctly or if there's a software issue.
If you're unable to repair the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should buy an entirely new one. You can find low-cost options from many online retailers, and some of these are even delivered to your doorstep.