Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs can be damaged. Buttons can get stuck or break based on how they are stored and how they are tossed around.
Fortunately, the majority of problems with the key fob are simple to solve. But some are more serious and require expert assistance. This is when locksmiths can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten pretty intelligent, but it doesn't mean they can't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this happens. It's not a solution because it could be due to an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car makers are aware of the possibility of a problem, and they often include a mechanical key in the fob for use in such an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user's manual to find out more). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
You'll also need to be close to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob's transmitter loses power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and fairly inexpensive. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the original one (the positive side facing up towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it. This will ensure that the new battery is placed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch at the back and then prying the fob off. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to damage it! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself, you can also bring your key fob to a professional. Since it's a routine service that most auto shops will change the battery inside a fob for a nominal charge. Some dealers will even offer it for free dependent on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the issue. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
Your car key fob can be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a corroded or damaged board. These issues could stop your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver in your car, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from opening. You may need to get a professional replacement for the fob 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 may start to fail to register your presses reliably. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to a professional assessed for more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. If the battery is not the correct fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals or providing enough power to internal components.
In rare cases, the problem could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using an actual key to open the door, and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine whether they're working properly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is made up of numerous components that are interconnected and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. When a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's an obvious cause like a damaged or cracked case, or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also essential to examine other components of the vehicle such as the lights and horn to determine whether those are working normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. It may be necessary to reset the fob for the car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires special equipment.
Over time the contacts on buttons of a key fob can wear out. This is most common when the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also become worn out over time. This can result in a button that doesn't work when it is pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is activated.
Most fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic which can be loosened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This can bring a keyfob back to its original purpose. It's recommended to clean it often to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A bad battery is the most auto key repair near me common reason that the key fob will not start or function. Many mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the batteries in a short time however, if you're at ease doing it yourself, you can buy a battery from the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, for example cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board, or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If you observe any of these issues, you should consult an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain 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 open the doors of your vehicle. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some instances the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify why the fob doesn't work properly.
The most common reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and the car is broken. The connection can be restored without the need for expensive key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other problems can be experienced. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync the key to your vehicle. This can be done by following the directions included with the key fob. You should also have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key is lost.
The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due an insufficient battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see whether this is the problem by using an external tester. If the tester does not light up when you press any of the buttons, it may be that the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is broken.
The immobilizer in your car could be preventing the fob from sending a clear signal. This can happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle or it's a software problem.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, then you should look into buying a replacement. You can find low-cost options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your doorstep.