How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Key fobs can be damaged even if we utilize them often. In fact, they could be destroyed in a variety of ways.

While the most common problem is the battery being dead, other issues can be much more serious. Fortunately, the majority of them can be resolved with a quick DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is probably the most common reason the car key fob stops functioning. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. It is a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet in case.

You can usually tell when your car key fob's battery is running low by the fact that the LED light will stop glowing. The key fob could also stop working from the same distance it used to. In this scenario it might be necessary to reprogram the key fob or replace it completely.

Fortunately replacing a car key fob battery is easy. Find out the type of battery used. The type of battery you are using should be stamped on the back of your key fob. If you're not sure it is, a quick Google search will be helpful. Open the key fob across the seam after you have identified the battery type. You'll need a small flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail pry the two halves apart. Take the old battery out, and replace it with a brand new one. Then, insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not realize their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons do not respond. In some cases, this can be solved by reprogramming the fob, however, this can be expensive and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and ask them to jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.

If you've tried every solution and your vehicle still won't start, it's time to speak with an expert. A certified technician can determine if your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob requires a new battery. They can also suggest an auto shop that will replace your key fob. In the end, though, sometimes a brand new fob is the most effective solution.

Damaged Circuit Board

A key fob is not impervious to destruction, but it can be able to withstand a variety of physical harm. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all subject to wear and tear. It is important to take care of these parts to ensure your key fob remains in good working order.

The easiest way to test is that the battery in the key fob isn't dying. Replace the battery to see if it solves your problem. If not, you might require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It is sometimes difficult to open certain key fobs due to the fact that they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You can damage your fob by trying break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, however you should always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.

A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be caused by many things like dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob has stopped working completely, think about having it reprogrammed by an expert locksmith who specializes in this type of work.

Radio interference is also a possibility. It could happen if are other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency as your key fob, such a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the situation you need to contact the other device manufacturer to ensure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.

It's also possible that your key fob has an issue with the switch or another electrical component that must be replaced. This is a harder fix, broken but you can find guides online that explain how to do it yourself. Be cautious when doing this, however, because the circuit board in your key fob is small and can easily break when handled rough. If you do this yourself, be sure to use a good quality SMT switch and solder it into place properly.

Worn Out Buttons

Car key fobs can suffer a lot of wear and tear. They are prone to getting dropped and spend a lot of time being tossed around in your pocket or purse. Sometimes, this jostling can cause buttons to wear out or become stuck. A simple adjustment can fix the issue.

Modern key fobs are fitted with sensors that can detect when they have been hit. They're made to do this so that they can decrease the chance of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when you press them, they're worn out and should be replaced.

Key fobs also have an internal circuit board which transmits signals to your car. The signals include unlock and lock commands and also instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged, then your key fob might not allow you to unlock your car or start the engine. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.

If you're forced to press the buttons more than usual to get them to function the fob's buttons are getting worn out. The fob may also stop sending an alert to your car or have a lower range.

If you're not able to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, you need to find a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able to determine whether the key fob is damaged or the ignition cylinder has worn down.

Fortunately, the majority of car key fob problems aren't a major or difficult issue. Keep a spare key fob in your car key fob repair near me always in case you end up being shocked by a malfunctioning key. This will ensure that you're never left stranded somewhere because of an unreliable or lost key. If you do happen to lose your car key spare, a locksmith can help reset it so that it works with the ignition of your car. They can also fix any internal damage to the key fob.

Broken Case

The case of the key fob is more than just protect the buttons and batteries. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic whenever you press the button on your key fob. This board takes the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.

If the board is damaged or dead, your key fob won't be able to function. Sometimes a dead key fob can be reprogrammed which is something your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.

Another reason your key fob might not be functioning is that the batteries are dying. The battery can be replaced at your home. The good news is that you can locate the replacement battery online or at your local auto parts store, since the batteries aren't limited to key fobs.

There are a variety of ways to open a key fob to get inside it, based on the type. You can determine what type of battery your key fob uses by conducting a quick internet search. From there, you can purchase the replacement and simply take the old one out, and then the new one in.

When repairing a broken key fob, the most important goal is not to harm the circuit or buttons more. If you attempt to remove a key fob with a sharp edge, such as a screwdriver could cause damage to the case or damage the plastic. Luckily, a replacement case is cheap and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronics from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.

So, if your key fob doesn't work Check to see if the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board is damaged. If that's not the case, a professional can repair it quickly and cheaply. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty of any replacement or used fobs purchased online.