key fob repairs Fob Repair Service

Key fobs can be subjected to many abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they're jostled, their buttons can become stuck or broken.

Fortunately, the majority of key fob issues are relatively easy to resolve. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious, and require assistance from a professional. Locksmiths can be of great help in these situations.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key fobs have become quite intelligent however it doesn't mean they can't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. It's not a solution since there may be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a problem, and they often install an extra mechanical key inside the fob to be used in an emergency. To access this, locate the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user's manual for more details). By pressing this button, you will be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key that you can use to open the car.

You'll also need to be nearer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery is depleted which limits its operating range.

Replacing the battery is easy and fairly inexpensive. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user's guide to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the new battery is placed correctly.

Some key fobs are a little tricky to open, but you should be able to open them by finding the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and then prying it open. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll require it to connect to your vehicle! If you're not confident in making this change yourself it's also possible to bring your key fob to a professional. Many auto shops will swap a fob's battery at a minimal cost as it's a common repair service. Some dealers might even offer to perform the swap for free, based on the model and year of your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Working

The first thing you need to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is to replace the batteries. This is the fastest fix and will most likely fix the problem. If your fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be due to damage.

The damage to the car key fob due to a variety of reasons including physical trauma, water exposure or a corroded circuit board. These issues can stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver inside your car, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from locking. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll need an expert to repair car key fob the part or the entire device.

The buttons on your fob might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and eventually, they'll begin to fail to register your presses reliably. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined to make more extensive repairs.

Double check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores. You must always refer to your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. If the battery is not the correct fit, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and providing sufficient power to internal components.

In the rarest of cases, it could be that the issue isn't the key fob itself but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system (if available). If your key's physical counterpart does not open or start your car, have an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they're functioning properly.

Fob Is Damaged

A key fob is made up of many components and a single malfunction could cause other components 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 component. It's also essential to examine other parts of the vehicle like the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.

If the key fob is damaged, you should get a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. The fob may require reprogramming to the vehicle and this isn't something you can do at home, and requires special equipment to do so.

The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to send signals to the circuit board on the key fob, but these may wear out over time. This is most common when the fob gets dropped or left in hot weather.

Over time the internal wiring of the key fob could become worn down. This can result in the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when pressed very hard. It could also cause the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.

Most fobs come with a plastic cover which can be loosened and then cleaned with soap and water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original function. It's an excellent idea for you to do it often to avoid dirt damaging the inside.

A damaged battery is the main reason that the key fob will not start or function. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you are comfortable with the installation, you can purchase a new one at an online store or hardware store and follow the steps on YouTube or in the owner's guide.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board, or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of the above is the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance getting it programmed to your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Programming

The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. When they stop working or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some instances, the issue can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other cases, it might require a more complex repair. The first step is to identify the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.

One of the most common causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your car is broken. You may be able to reset the connection without having to call repair of your key fob.

Other problems can arise when the key fob no more sends a strong signal. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, try to resync the key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions included with the key fob. Also, you should keep a spare car key in case your primary key is lost.

It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. You can test the fob to see whether this is the problem by using the remote control car key repairs tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob is broken.

Another reason why a fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it from sending a strong signal. This could be the case when your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly, or if there's a software issue.

If you're not able to resolve the issue, or it's not worth the effort of trying to repair the fob, then think about buying a new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some can be delivered directly to your home.