Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Based on the way they're stored and how often they are knocked around, their buttons may become stuck or broken.
Most key fob problems are easy to fix. However, some issues are more serious and require expert assistance. This is when locksmiths come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding zone". When this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. It's not a solution since there may be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, and they frequently put a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of such an emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for more details). By pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a physical key that you can use to unlock the car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be a lot closer to your car in order to unlock and open it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively inexpensive. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to an elongated silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing up towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by finding the latch, screw, or switch at the back and prying the fob in two. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to damage it! If you're not confident in making this change yourself then you can bring your fob to a professional. Since it's a common service the majority of auto shops will change the battery inside a fob for a nominal fee. Some dealers will even do it for no cost depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
Replace the batteries if your key fob does not work. This is the fastest fix and will most likely fix the problem. If your device doesn't work after replacing the battery it could be caused by damage.
The car key fob could be damaged due to a variety of reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a corroded board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the receiver in your vehicle, which then prevents your car's doors and/or ignition from unlocking or even starting. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain might have worn out due to repeated use. Rubber can wear out, making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They can also stop registering your press. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue, but it's usually best to take the fob to be professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in most hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. If the battery is not the right fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In some cases it could be a problem related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door, and then trying to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your car then a mechanic should inspect the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is composed of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob stops working, it's important that you check for obvious causes like cracks in the casing or a damaged component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to make sure they are functioning correctly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, you should find a replacement at your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of trying to fix it. The fob may require reprogramming in the car, which is something that can't usually be done at home, and requires specialized equipment to do so.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board, but these can wear down over time. This is especially common if the fob is dropped or left in hot weather.
As time passes the internal wiring inside the key fob may wear down. This can result in the button not working when it's pressed or only working when it's pressed very hard. It could also result in the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is used.
The majority of key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can often help restore a key fob's functioning properly, and it's a good practice to clean it often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A bad battery is the most common reason why a key fob won't start or function. Many mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly however, if you're at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a battery at the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks or tiny electronic components that are not fully attached to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded battery contact points. If any of these is the case, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions on a replacement and help getting it programmed to your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and open the doors of your vehicle. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or appear to be working intermittently. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations, it could involve an even more complex repair. The first step is to identify the reason for the fob not functioning properly.
One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your car is interrupted. The connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
Other issues could arise when the key fob no more sends an energizing signal. This could happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, try to resync your key with your car. This can be done by following the directions included with the key fob. Also, you should have a spare car keys in case the primary key fails.
It's possible that the fob isn't getting an adequate signal from the car. This could be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the cause by using an external tester. If the tester does not light up when any of the buttons are press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob is damaged.
Another reason why the fob not transmitting an adequate signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is preventing it from sending a strong signal. remote car key repair can happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or it's a software problem.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, then you should look into buying a replacement. Many online retailers offer cheap options, and some can be delivered to your residence.