Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they're moved around, their buttons could be damaged or stuck.
The majority of key fob issues are fixable. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious, and require professional assistance. A locksmith can be of great help in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart However, that doesn't mean they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding zone". If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. However, this doesn't always fix the problem, because you may also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently add a second mechanical key inside the fob for use in such an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release button or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for more details). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
You will also need to be nearer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase a button cell battery (which looks like a tiny silver coin) for your fob, and follow the user's guide or video on how to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the new battery is placed correctly.
You can access key fobs by locating the latch, screw or switch at the back and prying the fob off. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to cause damage! If you're not confident in doing this on your own then you can send your key fob to a professional. Since it's a common service the majority of auto shops will swap the battery inside fobs for a minimal fee. Some dealers will even offer it for free, depending on the model and make 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 easiest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your device still does not work after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.
The car key fob could be damaged due to various reasons, such as physical trauma, 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 could stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to repair the part or the entire device.
The buttons on your device might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber can wear away, making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They also may stop registering your press. You can try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to have it professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a exact match for the fob you're using. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and providing enough power to internal components.
In some cases, the problem could be with the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system and you want to test it, you can do so by opening the doors with the physical key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If your physical key does not allow you to start your car, make sure a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they're functioning properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of many components that function together, and one failure can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function, it's important that you look for obvious causes such as cracked casings or a broken component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure they're functioning correctly.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than try 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 special equipment.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is particularly true if the fob is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob may be worn out over time. It could result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also result in the car not opening or locking when the fob is pressed.
Most fobs come with a plastic cover that can be opened and then cleaned with soap and water. This is often able to help restore a key fob's functioning properly, and it's a good idea to do it often to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A damaged battery is the most common reason why the key fob won't turn on or work. Many mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself, you can buy a battery from the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
key fob repair service -case scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, like cracks, tiny electronic components not fully attached to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If any of these are the case, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
Car key fobs are an excellent feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and begin the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some cases the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases, it could involve a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.
One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and car is damaged. You may be able to reset this connection without the need for an repair service for your key fob.
Other problems can arise when the key fob isn't able to sends a strong signal. This can happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided by the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an additional key in case you need to use it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This can be caused by weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. You can test the fob to see whether this is the cause by using a remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be damaged.
The immobilizer in your car could be preventing a fob from sending out a strong signal. This could happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle or if there is a software issue.
If you aren't able to resolve the issue, or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, then you should think about buying a new one. You can find low-cost options from numerous online retailers and some can be delivered directly to your door.