Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to many abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break based on how they are stored and how they are jostled.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are simple to fix. But some are more serious and require assistance from a professional. Locksmiths can be a great resource in these cases.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart, but that does not mean that they don't occasionally become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. This doesn't solve the problem since there may be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently install an extra mechanical key in the fob to use in an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user manual for more details). By pressing this, you will be able to open the fob, and then gain access to an actual key that you can use to unlock your vehicle.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is the fact that you have to be closer to the car to unlock and open it than you did before. This is because the fob's transmitter loses strength when its battery dies which limits its range of operation.
The replacement of the battery is simple and fairly inexpensive. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user manual 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 and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is placed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw, or switch on the back and then prying the fob in two. Be careful not to break the fob because you'll need it to connect to your vehicle! You could also take the fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable making it your own. Most auto shops will swap batteries for fobs for a small fee as it's a common repair service. Some dealers may even do it for no cost, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will 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 the attention of a professional.
Damage can occur to your car key fob for many reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded circuit board. These problems can prevent your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from locking. If your fob is damaged, it's likely that you'll need a professional to repair the part or the entire device.
Similarly, the buttons on your device could have become worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and may begin to fail to detect your pressing accurately. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is usually best to get the fob examined by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the battery you're using is a precise match for your fob. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you must always refer to your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the type of battery it needs. If the battery isn't the correct fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and supplying sufficient power to internal components.
In rare cases the issue could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the doors with an actual key and starting the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your key isn't working to open or start your car then a mechanic should inspect the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of numerous components that are interconnected, and one failure can cause others to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it is important to look for obvious causes such as cracks in the casing or a broken component. It's also important to check other areas of the vehicle, such as the horn and lights to see whether they're working as expected.
It's better to replace the key fob if it's damaged, rather than attempt to repair it. The fob may need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle and this isn't something you can do at home, and it requires special equipment to do this.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is especially common if the fob gets dropped or left in hot temperatures.
Over time, the internal wiring in the key fob could wear auto key repair near me down. It can lead to a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also cause the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs come with the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This can often help restore a key fob's proper function and it's a good idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.
A damaged battery is the primary reason that a key fob won't turn on or work. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly 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 instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, such as cracks or tiny electronic components that are not completely connected to the circuit boards or corroded and bent contact points on the battery. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions on a replacement as well as assistance getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to be working intermittently. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is determining the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
One of the main causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your car is broken. You can sometimes reset this connection without needing a key fob repair service.
Other problems can arise when the key fob no more sends a clear signal. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your car. You can do this by following the instructions on the key fob. It is also recommended to carry a spare car key in the event that your primary key fails.
It's possible that the fob isn't getting a strong enough signal from the car. This can be caused by weak car batteries or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. With a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester does not light up when you press any of the buttons, it may be that the battery has to be replaced or that the fob is been damaged.
The immobilizer in your car could prevent the fob from sending a clear signal. This could be the case in the event that your key fob isn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it isn't worth the effort to repair it, you should purchase the new one. You can find affordable options from numerous online retailers and some can even be delivered to your doorstep.