Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are jostled, their buttons can be damaged or stuck.
The majority of key fob issues are simple to fix. Some key fob issues are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when locksmiths be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite smart, but that does not mean they won't sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. It's not a solution since there may be an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually install a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just such an emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for more details). When you press this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key you can use to unlock your car.
You will also need to be close to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is because the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery is depleted and limits the range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase the button cell battery (which looks like tiny silver coins) for your fob and
Key Repairs follow the user manual or
Key Repairs video instructions on how to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way as the old one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to be certain the new battery was placed correctly.
Some key fobs can be a little tricky to open but you should be able to open them by locating the latch, switch or screw at the back of the fob and then tearing it apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to cause damage! You could also take the fob to an expert in case you're not comfortable making it your own. Many auto shops will change the battery of a fob at a minimal cost because it's a common
repair car key fob service. Some dealers will even perform the swap for free, based on the model and year of the car.
Fob Isn't Working
Replace the batteries if the key fob doesn't work. This is the most efficient solution and will likely resolve the problem. If your fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be due to damage.
Damage can happen to the car key fob for many reasons including physical trauma, exposure to water or a corroded circuit board. These issues may prevent your
key repair from sending a signal to the car's receiver which can then stop the doors of your car and/or ignition from unlocking or even starting. It is possible that you will need to have a professional replace your
key Repairs if it's damaged.
The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less responsive or clicky, and they can start to fail to register your presses reliably. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to get the fob examined by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at many hardware stores. You must always consult the owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what kind of battery it requires. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals or providing sufficient power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be the case that the problem is not with your key fob but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door with a physical key and then start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If your key's physical counterpart does not open or start your car, make sure a mechanic check the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they are working properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is composed of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it is important to check for obvious causes like cracked casings or a damaged component. It's also essential to examine other areas of the vehicle, such as the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's recommended to get a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix it. It may be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
Over time the contacts on buttons of a key fob can wear out. This is more likely if you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.
In time the internal wiring of the key fob may wear down. This can result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only works when pressed very strongly. It could also result in the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned safely with soap and warm water. This is a great way to restore a key fob to proper function and it's a great idea to do this regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.
A faulty battery is typically the reason for a key fob to not work or turn on. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery quickly. If you're confident in installing the battery yourself, you can purchase a new one at the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards or corroded and bent contact points for batteries. If any of these are the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance to program it for your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are an excellent feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and then start the engine. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, however, in other instances it could require an intricate repair. The first step is determining the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is broken. This connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other issues could be experienced. This could happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either case, you should attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions that came on the key fob. It's also recommended to carry a spare key with you in case you need to use 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 to a weak battery in the car or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob to determine if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester does not illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it could be a sign that the battery has to be replaced or that the fob is been damaged.
The immobilizer in your car could be preventing a fob from sending a strong signal.