Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break based on how they are stored and how they are tossed around.
The majority of key fob issues are simple to fix. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious, and require professional assistance. A locksmith can be a great resource in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent however that doesn't mean that they don't occasionally get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this happens. It's not a solution because there could be a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, and they frequently install a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just this kind of emergency. To access this, you can find the small release button or latch behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob and gain access to an actual key that you can use to unlock your vehicle.
It is also necessary to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter loses strength as its battery ages, limiting the range of operation.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and fairly inexpensive. Make sure you purchase the button cell battery (which appears like an incredibly small silver coin) for your fob and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to remove the old one. Replace the battery in the same way that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch at the back, and then tearing the fob off. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to connect to your vehicle! You can also take your key fob to an expert if you are not comfortable doing it yourself. Since it's a routine service that most auto shops will change the battery inside fobs for a minimal fee. Some dealers may even complete the task for free based on the model and make of your car.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it doesn't work. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your fob is still not working after a change of battery, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
Your car key fob can be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a corroded or damaged board. These problems can prevent your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. You may have to have a professional replace the fob if it's damaged.
The buttons on your keychain might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and may begin to fail to detect your presses reliably. You can try wiping down the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the issue however, it's recommended to send the fob to have it professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. A battery that is not the perfect match may be unable to transmit strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In very rare cases it could be the case that the issue is not the key fob itself but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system and you want to test it, you can do so by opening the door using the physical key and start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If your physical key does not work or open your car, you should have a mechanic check the receiver and electronic components to make sure they are working properly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob has many parts that are interconnected, and one failure can cause others to fail. If a keyfob stops working, it's important that you examine the cause for obvious reasons such as cracks in the casing or a broken component. It's also essential to examine other areas of the vehicle such as the lights and horn to determine whether they're working as expected.
It is better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged rather than attempt to repair it. It might be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not 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 key fob's circuit board however, these contacts can wear down over time. This is especially common if the fob is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
In time the internal wiring inside a key fob can also become worn down. This can result in the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when pressing extremely hard. This could also lead to the car not being able car key repair shop to start or unlock once the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs come with a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can often restore a key fob to functioning properly and it's a great idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.
A damaged battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or function. Most mechanics and car dealers can replace the battery quickly. If you are comfortable with the installation, 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 manual.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks, tiny electronic components not fully connected to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. 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 isn't programming.
Car key fobs are an excellent feature that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. When they stop working, or fail to function, they can be frustrating. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances, it could involve an intricate repair. The first step is determining the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
One of the main reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and your car is broken. You can sometimes reset the connection without the need for repair of your key fob.
If the key fob not sending a clear signal, other problems can be experienced. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the directions that come with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an extra key in case you need to utilize it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due a weak battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and check if it's the problem. If the tester does not light up when any of the buttons are pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
An immobilizer on your car may be preventing the fob from sending out a strong signal. This could be the case when your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the effort of trying to repair the fob, you should look into buying a replacement. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some are delivered to your residence.