Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they're jostled, their buttons can get stuck or damaged.
Most key fob problems are easy to fix. Some key fob issues are more severe and require expert assistance. A locksmith can be a great resource in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite intelligent, but this doesn't mean that they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. This doesn't solve the problem because it could be due to an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently add a second mechanical key in the fob for use in the event of an emergency. To access this, you can locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for details). When you press this button, you will be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key that you can use to open the car.
You'll also need to be close to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This reduces its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. You'll need the button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user guide to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same way that the previous one was placed (the positive side should be facing upward toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch on the back, and then tearing the fob in two. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll need it to operate your vehicle! If you're not confident in doing this yourself, you can also take your key fob to a professional. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs for a nominal fee, since it's such an often-used repair service. Some dealers will even be willing to complete the task 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 device isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
Damage can occur to the car key fob for many reasons, including physical trauma, water exposure or a damaged circuit board. These issues can prevent your key from communicating with the vehicle's receiver, which then prevents the doors of your car and/or ignition from unlocking or turning on. You may have to get a professional replacement for your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and may start to fail to register your press accurately. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined to make more extensive repairs.
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 most hardware stores, and you must always refer to your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. A battery that isn't a perfect match can have problems transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In the rarest of cases, it could be that the problem is not with your key fob but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the doors with the physical key and starting the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your car check with a mechanic the electronic components and receiver of your car to see if they are functioning correctly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob contains many components that function together and a single failure could cause other parts to fail. When a key fob stops functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's an obvious cause like a cracked case or a damaged internal component. It's also essential to examine other parts of the vehicle, such as the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
repair car keys near me to replace the key fob in case it's damaged rather than try to repair it. It might be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to send signals to the circuit board of the key fob however, these contacts can wear down over time. This is most common when the fob gets dropped or left in hot temperatures.
In time, the internal wiring in the key fob could get worn out. This could lead to the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when pressed extremely hard. It could also cause the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
Most key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This is often able to bring a fob back to its original function and it's a great idea to do this regularly to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A damaged battery is the primary reason that a key fob won't turn on or work. The majority of car dealers and mechanics are able to replace the battery quickly. If you're comfortable with the installation, you can purchase the new one from a big-box store or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube or in your owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If you find any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a new key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. When they stop working or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some instances the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and car is damaged. This connection can be restored without the need for expensive key fob repair.
Other issues could arise when the key fob isn't able to sends an energizing signal. This can happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions provided on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key to make use of it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
The fob might not be receiving an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due to a weak battery in the car, interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. With a remote tester, you can test the fob to determine if it's the problem. If the tester doesn't light up when any of the buttons are pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also prevent a fob from sending out a strong signal. This could happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or in the event of a software issue.
If you are unable to fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you need to purchase a new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some are delivered right to your home.