Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are jostled, their buttons can get stuck or damaged.

Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are simple to solve. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require professional assistance. A locksmith can be a great resource in these instances.

Dead Fob Battery

The car key fobs are pretty smart however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. It's not a solution since there may be a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and often install an extra mechanical key in the fob for use in an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user manual for details). By pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a physical automotive key repair that you can use to unlock the car.

You will also need to be closer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength as its battery ages which limits its range of operation.

It is relatively easy to replace the battery. Just be sure to buy the button cell battery (which appears to be like a tiny silver coin) for your fob and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to remove the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the battery has been installed correctly.

You can open some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw, or switch on the back and then prying the fob apart. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to damage it! If you're not confident in making this change yourself, you can also bring your key fob to a professional. Most auto shops will swap the battery of a fob for a small fee because it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers might even offer it for free, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Working

The first thing you should do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be due to damage.

Your car key fob can be damaged due to a variety of reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a damaged or corroded board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your car, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from locking. It is possible that you will need to hire a professional to replace your key if it's damaged.

The buttons on your keychain could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They may also stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined to make more extensive repairs.

It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a exact match for your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you should always consult your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what type of battery it needs. If the battery isn't the right fit, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and supplying sufficient power to internal components.

In rare cases it could be a problem with the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door, and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle check with a mechanic the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.

Fobs that are damaged

A key fob is comprised of a variety of parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it's crucial to check for obvious causes like cracks in the casing or a damaged part. Check the horn, light and other parts of the vehicle to ensure they're functioning correctly.

It is better to replace the key fob in case it is damaged than to attempt to repair it. It might be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.

The buttons on a key fob use contacts that transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they can wear down over time. This is more likely when you drop the device or leave it in a hot climate.

The internal wiring of a key fob could also wear out over time. This could lead to a button not working when it's pressed, or only functioning when it's pressed extremely hard. This can also result in the vehicle not being able start or unlock once the fob is pressed.

Most fobs have an outer cover made of plastic which can be loosened and cleaned using soap and water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's an excellent idea to clean it frequently to avoid dirt destroying the inside.

A damaged battery is the most common reason that the key fob won't turn on or work. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly, but if you feel comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a battery at an hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, for example cracks within the case, tiny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board, or corroded or bent battery contact points. If any of these is the situation, it's a good idea to speak with an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions on a replacement and help to program it to your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Programming

Car key fobs are an excellent convenience that allows you to unlock your car's doors and start the engine. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some cases the problem can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other situations it may require a more complicated repair car keys. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.

The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your car is cut off. You can sometimes reset this connection without having to call a key fob repair service (try here).

When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other issues could be experienced. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, attempt to reconnect the key to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions that come with the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key to utilize it in the event that your primary key isn't working.

It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving an adequate signal from the car. This can be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to determine whether this is the problem by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't light up when you press any of the buttons, it may be because the battery is in need of replacement or the fob is been damaged.

Another reason why the fob not sending the right signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it from sending a strong signal. This can happen if your key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle or it's a software issue.

If you're unable to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then consider buying a new one. You can find affordable options from numerous online retailers and some can even be delivered to your doorstep.