13 Things About Key Fob Repair Service You May Not Know

Key Fob repair car remote control key Service

Key fobs can be subjected to a lot of abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how they are tossed around.

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 can come in handy.

Dead Fob Battery

The car key fobs are pretty smart, but that does not mean they do not sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". When this happens, it's time to replace the battery. It's not a solution because there could be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often install a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just this kind of emergency. To access this, locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user's manual for specifics). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob and reveal a key that you can use to unlock your car key and repair.

Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be a lot closer to the car to unlock and open it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses energy when its battery is depleted. This reduces its range.

It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase a button cell battery (which appears to be like an incredibly small silver coin) for your fob and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to take out the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to make sure that the new battery was installed correctly.

Certain key fobs may be difficult 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 tearing it apart. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll need it to work with your vehicle! If you're not confident in doing this on your own then you can bring your key fob to an expert. Since it's a common service that most auto shops will replace the battery on fobs for a minimal cost. Some dealers may even be willing to perform the swap for free, based on the model and brand of your car.

Fob not working

The first thing you need to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is to replace the batteries. This is the easiest fix and most likely what can fix the issue. If your fob is still not working after a battery change it may be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.

Damage can occur to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons including physical trauma, water exposure or a damaged circuit board. These issues can stop your key from sending the signal to your receiver in your vehicle, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from unlocking. You may have to hire a professional to replace your key if it's damaged.

The buttons on your device may have worn away with repeated use. Rubber can wear out and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your press. You can try wiping down the buttons and then adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue however, it's best to take the fob to be professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.

It is important to ensure that the new battery you're using is a precise match for your fob. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that isn't a perfect match can be unable to transmit strong signals or damaged providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.

In rare cases the issue could be in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system and you want to test it, you can do so by opening the door with the physical key and starting the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your car then a mechanic should inspect the receiver and electronic components of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.

Fob Is Damaged

A key fob is made up of numerous components that function together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to examine the cause for obvious reasons such as a cracked casing or a damaged part. It's also important to check other parts of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether they're working as expected.

If the key fob is damaged, you should find a replacement at your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. It could be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. This is not something you can do at home and requires special equipment.

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.

Over time the internal wiring of a key fob can also get worn out. This can result in buttons that don't function when pressed, or damaged works when pressed very strongly. It could also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock after the fob is used.

The majority of key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's recommended for you to do it regularly to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.

A damaged battery is the most common reason why 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 installing the battery yourself then you can buy a new one at a big-box store or a hardware store, and follow the directions on YouTube or in your owner's manual.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board, or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to speak with an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance to program it to your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Programming

Car key fobs are a convenient feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and start the engine. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some cases the problem is solved by replacing the battery. In other cases, it might require a more intricate repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.

The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is cut off. The connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.

When the key fob is not sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to reconnect your key to your vehicle. You can do this by following the directions that come with the key fob. Also, you should carry a spare car key in case your primary key fails.

The fob may 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 an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and see if it is the issue. If the tester doesn't illuminate when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob is broken.

The immobilizer in your car could prevent the fob from sending a clear signal. This could happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle or it's an issue with the software.

If you are unable to fix the fob or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you need to purchase an entirely new one. You can find affordable options from many online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your doorstep.