How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Key fobs can become damaged even if we use them frequently. They can be destroyed in different ways.

While the most common problem is the battery being dead, other issues can be much more grave. Fortunately, the majority of these can be fixed by a simple DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is the main cause of a key fob not working. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed to hot or humid temperatures or even water. It's a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet just in case.

You can usually tell the moment the battery in your car key fob is depleted by the fact that the LED light will cease to blink. It's also possible that the fob won't function at the same distance it used to. In this case the key fob could need to be programmed again or replaced altogether.

It is easy to replace the car keyfob battery. Find out the kind of battery used. The type should be engraved on the side of the fob. If you are not sure it is, doing a quick Google search will help. Open the key fob across the seam after you have identified the type of battery. Make use of a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail, to separate the two halves. Then, remove the battery that was removed and replace it with the new one in its place. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up toward the buttons in the fob.

Some drivers don't even realize that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons stop working. This can be corrected by reprogramming the fob. However it could be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and see if they are able to jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.

If you've tried both solutions and your car still doesn't turn on, it's time to call a professional. A trained technician can tell if your car's computer needs changing its programming, or if the fob only requires replacement batteries. They can also suggest an auto shop that will replace the key fob. Sometimes it is possible that a new fob may be the best solution.

Circuit Board Damage

A key fob is not impervious to destruction, but it can withstand a lot of physical harm. The battery, circuit board and buttons will all experience their fair share of wear and tear over the course of time It is therefore essential to be vigilant and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob operating efficiently.

Make sure that the battery still functioning in your key fob. Replace the battery to see if it fixes the issue. If this does not work, you may need to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. This can be difficult since some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them and you may end up damaging your key fob if try to pull it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, but it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.

Another issue that is common is a damaged or corrupted circuit board inside the key fob. It can be caused by numerous factors, local such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or even an accidental firmware update can also cause this. If your key fob isn't working completely, you should consider having it reprogrammed by a locksmith that specializes in this kind of work.

Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen if are other wireless devices transmitting on the same frequency as your key fob, like a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case, you should check with the other manufacturers of your device to make sure that your key fob's signal isn't affected by their signals.

You may also need to replace a switch or an electrical component of your key fob. There are online guides that will help you fix this yourself. You should be careful, however, as the circuit board in your key fob is very small and is prone to breaking when handled rough. If you're doing this yourself, be sure to use an SMT switch of good quality and then solder the switch into place in a proper manner.

Buttons that are worn out

Car key fobs are prone to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are more prone to being dropped and spend a lot of time being tossed around in your purse or pocket. The constant jostling can cause the buttons to wear down or get stuck. In this case it's possible that a simple adjustment will be all that's needed to get it working again.

Modern key fobs are fitted with sensors that can detect when they have been pressed. This is because they reduce the possibility of someone taking your vehicle. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding when pushed this is a sign that they're worn out and need to be replaced.

The circuit board in the key fob also transmits signals to your car. The signals include commands to unlock and lock and also commands to start your engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, then your key fob might not allow you to unlock or start your engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.

If you're forced to press the buttons harder than usual in order to get them to function the fob's buttons are getting worn out. Your fob could be unable to send an alert to your car or have a lower range.

If you're not able to unlock your key fob repair near me fob, unlock or start your vehicle, it's crucial to contact an emergency locksmith in your area. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob is damaged or the ignition cylinder has worn down.

Fortunately, the majority of car key fob issues aren't too serious or local complex. The best way to avoid getting taken by surprise by an issue with your key fob is to keep an extra key in your possession at all times. You won't be left stranded due to an unresponsive or lost key. Of course, if you do happen to lose your spare car key, a locksmith can help change the key so that it works with the ignition of your car. They can also fix any internal damage to your key fob.

Broken Case

The case of the key fob is more than just protect the buttons and batteries. It also houses the circuit board responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you hit a button on your key fob. This board takes the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.

Your key fob will not function if the board is damaged. Sometimes a dead key fob may need to be reprogrammed which is something your local auto locksmith or the dealership can help you with.

Another reason your key fob may not be working is that the batteries are not working. This is a quick solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. You can purchase the replacement battery from the local auto parts store or on the internet. These batteries are not just for key fobs.

There are a variety of ways to open the key fob and go inside, based on the kind. You can determine the type of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick internet search. From there, you can purchase a replacement and easily pop the old one out and put the new one in.

The most important thing to consider when fixing the broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. Trying to pry apart a key fob with a sharp edge, such as screwdrivers can cause damage to the case or scratch the plastic. Luckily, a replacement case isn't expensive and you can buy a whole fob assembly with the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.

If your key fob doesn't work, check to see if the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board has been damaged. If this isn't the case, a professional will repair it quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty of any fob replacement or used that you purchase on the internet.