Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to many abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how much they are thrown around.
Most key fob issues are easy to fix. But some are more serious and require expert assistance. A locksmith can be a huge help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs are quite smart, but this doesn't mean that they won't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. However, this doesn't always fix the issue, as you could also have an issue with one of the battery connector's terminals.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, and they frequently install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in this kind of emergency. To access this, find the small release button or latch located behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this can allow you to open the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.
You'll also need to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase the button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user manual to take out the old battery. After that, replace the new battery in the same way that the previous one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to be certain the battery was installed correctly.
Some key fobs can be difficult to open but you should be able to open them by locating the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and prying it apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to work with your car! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself then you can send your key fob to a professional. Since it's a routine service that most auto shops will swap the battery on fobs for a minimal cost. Some dealers might even offer to perform the swap for free, based on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if your key fob isn't working. 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 caused by damage.
Your car key fob can be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the car's receiver, which then prevents the doors of your car and/or ignition from unlocking or starting. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device could have become worn out with repeated use. Rubber can wear out making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They may also stop registering your presses. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is usually best to examine the fob by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you're using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In rare cases the issue could be in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door using an actual key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if available). 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 car to see whether they're working properly.
Fob Is Damaged
A key fob is composed of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other parts to fail. When a key fob stops functioning, it is important to determine whether there's an obvious cause such as a damaged case or a malfunctioning internal component. Check the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to ensure that they are working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to find a replacement at your dealer or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. It could be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. linked here is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they can wear down over time. This is most common when the device is dropped or left in hot weather.
As time passes the internal wiring of a key fob can also wear down. This could lead to the button not working when it's pressed or only working when pressing very hard. It could also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock after the fob has been used.
The majority of key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This is a great way to restore a key fob to its original function, and it's a good idea to do this often to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A damaged battery is the primary 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 with the installation and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase an additional one from the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
The most likely scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't completely connected to the circuit boards, or corroded and bent battery contact points. If you observe any of these problems, you should consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to get a replacement key fob and help in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, however, in other instances it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is determining the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and your car is broken. You can sometimes reset this connection without the need for a key fob repair service.
If the key fob not sending a clear signal, other issues could occur. This can happen if the key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either event, try to resync your key with your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions on the key fob. It is also recommended to keep a spare car key in the event that your primary key is lost.
It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving a strong enough signal from the car. This could be due to weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see if this is the issue by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
A car's immobilizer could also be preventing the fob from sending out a strong signal. This could happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or if there is an issue with the software.
If you're not able to solve the issue or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, you should consider buying a new one. You can find low-cost options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your doorstep.