Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to many abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they are moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. But some are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when locksmiths help.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become quite smart however that doesn't mean they don't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. But that doesn't always solve the issue, as you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential problem, and they often install an extra mechanical key inside the fob for use in an emergency. To access this, you can locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob and access the physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
You'll also need to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob loses power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase the button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction that the previous 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.
Some key fobs are a little tricky to open but you should be able to do it by placing the latch, switch, or screw on the back of the fob, and then prying it open. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll require it to connect to your vehicle! If you're not confident making this change yourself, you can also bring your fob to an expert. Since it's a common service, most auto shops will replace the battery on fobs for a minimal cost. Some dealers might even complete the task for free based on the model and make of your car.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if the key fob isn't working. This is the quickest solution and can fix the issue. If your device isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
The key fob in your car can be damaged for various reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a damaged or corroded board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the receiver in your vehicle and prevent your car's doors or ignition from locking or turning on. If your fob is damaged, it's likely you will need an expert to repair the part or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They may also cease to register your presses. You can try wiping down the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem, but it's usually best to take the fob to be professionally evaluated for more thorough repairs.
Make sure that the battery you are using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you should always consult your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what type of battery it needs. If the battery is not the correct fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be that the issue isn't the key fob itself but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using a 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 doesn't open or start your vehicle check with a mechanic the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is comprised of many components and a single malfunction could cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it's crucial to check for obvious causes like a cracked casing or a broken component. It's also essential to examine 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 in case it is damaged than to attempt to repair it. The fob might require reprogramming to the vehicle, which is something that cannot be done 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 particularly true if the device is dropped or left in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also wear out over time. It can lead to buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It could also cause the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is activated.
The majority of fobs have the cover of plastic that can be opened and cleaned using soap and water. This can restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's an excellent idea for you to do it often to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
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, but if you feel comfortable 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 worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, like cracks within the case, tiny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board or corroded or bent battery contact points. If any of these is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance 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. When they stop working or are not working, it can be a hassle. In some cases the problem can be solved by replacing the battery. In other circumstances, it could require a more intricate repair. The first step is to determine why the fob doesn't work properly.
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is broken. You may be able to reset the connection without needing a key fob repair service.
Other issues could arise when the key fob no longer sends a strong signal. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions included with the key fob. Also, you should have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key is lost.
It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving the signal sufficiently strong from the car. key fob repairs near me could be due to a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. You can test the fob to see if this is the issue by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't light up when you press any of the buttons, it could be that the battery needs to be replaced or that the fob has been damaged.
An immobilizer on your car may be preventing the fob from sending a clear signal. This can happen if your fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or in the event of an issue with the software.
If you're not able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then you should consider buying a new one. You can find low-cost options from many online retailers and some are even delivered to your door.