Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to a lot of abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break depending on how they are stored and how often they are jostled.
Fortunately, the majority of problems with the key fob are easy to resolve. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require assistance from a professional. Locksmiths can be of great help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs are quite smart, but this doesn't mean that they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this happens. This doesn't solve the problem because there could be a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually include a spare key mechanical inside the fob to be used in this kind of emergency. To access this, you can locate the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user manual for specifics). By pressing this, you will be able to open the fob and gain access to the physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.
You will also need to be closer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery dies and limits the range of operation.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which appears like a tiny silver coin) to replace your fob, and follow the user guide or video on how to remove the old battery. Then, 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 the fob test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by locating the latch, screw or switch at the back and then prying the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to operate your car! If you're not confident doing this on your own then you can send your key fob to an expert. Many auto shops will swap a fob's battery for a nominal fee because it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers might even offer to perform the swap for free, based on the model and make of the car.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if your key fob isn't working. This is the quickest solution and can fix the issue. 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.
Your car key fob can be damaged due to a variety of reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a damaged or corroded board. These issues can stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver inside your car, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from locking. You may have to have a professional replace your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and eventually, they'll begin to fail to detect your pressing accurately. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue However, it's generally recommended to send the fob to a professional examined for more comprehensive repairs.
You should also double check that the new battery you're using is a exact match for the fob you're using. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or at many hardware stores. You should always consult your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which kind of battery it requires. A battery that isn't a perfect match can be unable to transmit strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.
In the rarest of cases, it could be that the problem is not the key fob itself but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the doors with a physical key and then beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your car, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components of your car to see whether they're functioning properly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is made up of a variety of parts and one issue can cause other components to fail. When a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause like a cracked case or a broken internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to make sure they are functioning properly.
If the key fob 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 to the car and this can't usually be done at home, and requires specialized equipment to do this.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is most common when the fob gets dropped or left in hot temperatures.
In time the internal wiring of the key fob could become worn down. This could result in the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when it's pressing very hard. This can also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock when the fob is pressed.
Most fobs have the cover of plastic that can be opened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This can help restore a keyfob to its original function. It's also a good idea to clean it frequently to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A bad battery is usually the reason why a key fob will not turn on or work. Most car dealers and mechanics can change the batteries quickly but if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a battery at an hardware store or big-box retailer and follow instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely 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 these is the scenario, it's a great idea to speak with an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions on a replacement and help getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and open the doors of your car. If they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be frustrating. In some instances, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify 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 can happen if the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. The connection can be restored without the need for expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or if the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions that came with the key fob. It is also recommended to have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key is lost.
The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This can be caused by a weak car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. You can test the fob to determine whether this is the cause by using an external tester. If the tester does not light up when you press one of the buttons, it could be that the battery is in need of replacement or that the fob is been damaged.
Another reason why the fob not transmitting an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system is blocking it. This can happen if your fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or it's a software issue.
If you can't fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you need to purchase the new one. electronic car key repair offer cheap options, and some can be delivered to your residence.