Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to a lot of abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how often they are jostled.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to fix. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious and require professional assistance. A locksmith can be of great help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten pretty intelligent however it doesn't mean they can't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. This doesn't solve the problem because it could be due to a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential problem, and they often install an extra mechanical key in the fob to be used in an emergency. To gain car key fob repair to this, find the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user's manual for details). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob and gain access to the physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is that you need to be much closer to your car in order to open and lock it than before. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength as its battery ages and limits the range of operation.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and relatively inexpensive. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which looks like the size of a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user manual to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same way that the old one was inserted (the positive side should face upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to be certain the battery was installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by finding the latch, screw or switch at the back and prying the fob off. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to operate your vehicle! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself, you can also take your key fob to a professional. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will change the battery on a fob for a nominal charge. Some dealers may even do it for no cost dependent on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it does not work. This is the fastest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be caused by damage.
Damage can happen to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from communicating with the receiver in your vehicle which can then stop your car's doors or ignition from opening or starting. If your fob is damaged, it's likely that you'll need an expert to repair or 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 make the buttons less responsive or clicky and eventually, they'll begin to fail to register your pressing accurately. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, however, it is usually best to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or in most hardware stores, and you should always consult your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. If the battery isn't the right fit, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and providing sufficient power to internal components.
In rare instances, it could be that the issue is not the key fob itself but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door, and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if there is). If your physical key does not allow you to start your car, you should have a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they're working correctly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob has many components that are interconnected and a single failure could cause others to fail. If a key fob stops functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's an obvious cause such as a damaged case or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also crucial to examine other components of the vehicle such as the lights and horn to determine whether those are working normally.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than try to repair it. It might be necessary to reset the fob for the car. This is not something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts that transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board however, these contacts can wear down over time. This is more common when you drop the device or leave it in hot weather.
As time passes the internal wiring inside the key fob could become worn down. This can result in a button not working when it's pressed, or only working when press extremely hard. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able to start or unlock when the fob has been used.
Most fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened and cleaned using soap and water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original function. It's also a good idea to clean it frequently to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A bad battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or work. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly but if you're at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a 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 most likely scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks or tiny electronic components that are not completely connected to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded battery contact points. If you observe any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a new key fob and assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and open the doors of your vehicle. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is to identify why the fob doesn't work correctly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is interrupted. You may be able to reset the 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 clear signal. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions that come with the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an additional key to utilize it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
The fob may not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due an insufficient battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and see if it is the problem. If the tester does not light up when you press one of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is broken.
An immobilizer on your car may hinder the fob from sending out a strong signal. This can happen if your fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle or it's a software issue.
If you're not able to resolve the issue, or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then look into buying a replacement. Many online retailers offer affordable options, and some can be delivered to your residence.