Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to lots of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they get moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Fortunately, the majority of problems with the key fob are simple to solve. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious, and require assistance from a professional. This is where locksmiths can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite smart however it doesn't mean they can't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. But that doesn't always solve the issue, as you could also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
Car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in the case of an emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user manual to find out more). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be much closer to your car to open and lock it than before. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery dies and limits the range of operation.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Then, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the previous one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to make sure that the battery was installed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be difficult to open but you should be able to open them by placing the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and prying it apart. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll need it to work with your car! If you're not confident doing this yourself it's also possible to send your fob to an expert. 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 be willing to do it for free depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the easiest solution and can fix the issue. If your device still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be due to damage.
The key fob in your car can be damaged due to many reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to your receiver in your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from opening. If your fob is damaged, it's likely you will need a professional to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your fob could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and cause the buttons to become less responsive or clicky, and they can begin to fail to register your presses reliably. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the problem however, it's recommended to send the fob to be professionally evaluated for more thorough repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores, and you should always consult your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which kind of battery it requires. If the battery is not the right fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and providing 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 you can test it by opening the doors with an actual key and start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If your key's physical counterpart does not open or start your car, have a mechanic check the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they're working correctly.
car remote key repair is made up of many parts that function together, and one failure can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function, it's important that you examine the cause for obvious reasons such as cracked casings or a broken component. Check the horn, lights and other components of the car to ensure that they are functioning correctly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's recommended to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of trying to repair it. The fob might require reprogramming to the car, which is something that isn't something you can do at home, and it requires specialized equipment to do so.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, they will wear down over time. This is especially true when you drop the device or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also wear out over time. It can lead to a button that doesn't work when it is pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It can also lead to the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
Most key fobs come with the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's also a good idea to clean it often to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
A bad battery is the main reason why the key fob won't turn on or work. Most car dealers and mechanics can change the batteries quickly however, if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can buy a battery from the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, for example cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If you notice any of these issues you should contact 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 a convenient option that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some cases the problem can be solved by replacing the battery. However, in other cases, it might require a more complex repair. The first step is to identify why the fob isn't functioning properly.
One of the most common causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is broken. It is possible to reset this connection without having to call an repair service for your key fob.
If the key fob not sending a clear signal, other problems could occur. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions provided with the key fob. Also, you should have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key fails.
The fob might not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This can be due to an insufficient battery in the car, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and check if it's the problem. If the tester does not light up when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be broken.
Another reason that the fob not transmitting the right signal is that the car's immobilizer system is blocking it. This could happen when your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or you have a software issue.
If you're unable to solve the issue or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, then look into buying a replacement. Many online retailers offer affordable options and some can be delivered right to your home.