Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home

You may be enticed when your remote key fob isn't working, to take it to the dealership to have it reset. Instead, try a few quick fixes at home.

Begin by replacing the battery. Hardware stores sell flat watch-style batteries that are affordable and easy to find. Take a closer look at the fob that you have purchased and check for buttons that are worn or out of the right place.

Dead Battery

The key fob, which is a tiny electronic device, allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. It utilizes an radio transmitter with a short range to send unique codes to the receiver within your vehicle. Key fob batteries generally last for a long time, nearby but they can end up dying at any time. Look for the LED light or try pressing one of the buttons to determine whether the battery is dead. If the key fob does not respond, then the battery is dead and has to replaced.

It is quick and easy to change the battery in your key fob. It is usually as simple as opening the key fob, then removing the battery that was in use and replacing it with a fresh one. Fobs are powered by tiny batteries, similar to those used in hearing aids or watches, that are available at general stores and home improvement centers. They're usually shaped like small coins with plus and minus symbol on the bottom. If you're not sure what kind of battery your fob is using, check the owner's manual or look at the key fob itself for the label.

After you change the battery, your key fob should perform as expected. If it does not it could be due to a different issue with your vehicle or its system that's causing the fob not to perform as it should. If this is the situation, you'll have to get roadside assistance to help with the issue.

You may be able order replacement keys from a retailer or online, based on the make and models of your vehicle. It's typically cheaper and more convenient to purchase a new key fob than to repair a broken one.

Buttons aren't responding

If you've been driving for a while, and you notice that the keys' buttons aren't functioning it could be due to an issue with worn out sensor for the button. The buttons made of rubber on a majority of fobs will wear down with time. This could cause them to function correctly when pushed in a certain way or under extreme pressure. This is a problem that occurs for many fobs and is easily fixed with some simple DIY steps.

The fob sends an unlocking signal to the car's receiver. If the receiver is damaged, it will stop receiving the signal and prevent the key from working to unlock or start the vehicle. This can be fixed by having a mechanic look over the receiver to check for damage. In many cases, this is cost-free or at a minimal cost dependent on the model of the car keys repairs you own.

It's not surprising that key fobs are often used and are often tossed into pockets and purses. They can be finicky and only function properly when they are pressed in a particular manner. It is simple to fix most fobs, because the buttons are reinforced with silicone and a bit of effort.

Press and hold the lock and unlock buttons on your keyfob until you hear the car sound chime. You'll need to repeat this several times in succession to get the button to activate. Then, you'll need to cycle your key into and out of the ignition in your car a few more times to reset the connection between the fob and your car. Once the connection is restored, you can unlock the key and you should be able to unlock your vehicle with the remote. Repeat the process as necessary to make sure your fob is working again. If you are unable to fix the fob with this method, it might be necessary to replace it. If you decide to replace the fob, you must make sure it's programmed to match your vehicle's model and make.

Keychain Loop Breaks

If the plastic loop of the key fob is damaged it won't work to lock or unlock your vehicle. The keychain loop is easily replaced.

Key fobs can also malfunction due to moisture and water damage. Symptoms include a reduced range of operation, or no function at any time. Drying the key fob and replacing the battery could solve the issue however sometimes a professional repair or replacement is required.

Over time, key fob buttons can wear out and become less responsive or ineffective. This could necessitate a new key fob case or button replacement, but often the problem is solved by changing the program. Occasionally, signal interference from nearby electronic devices can interfere with the connection between the key fob and your vehicle, leading to problems with locking or unlocking. This could require a diagnostic test at the dealership to identify and solve. This is usually the case with older electric key fobs that operate using infrared signals and require a clear line of sight to function however modern microchip key fobs rely on radio frequency challenge-response authentication to communicate with your vehicle.

Pairings that are lost or corrupted

Over time keys fob batteries deplete their charge. If the battery has lost too much of its power, the remote won't respond to commands. This problem is usually resolved by replacing the battery but it may also be necessary to re-program your remote.

Key fobs found in modern cars are capable of controlling lots of functions. They can raise and lower the windows, activate the alarm as well as turn on the interior lighting, and even start some vehicles. It is possible for owners to use the wrong buttons due to accident. Keep the owner's guide close to hand when using your key fob to quickly refer to the sections that address the features of your car.

Another reason that can cause the fob to cease working is that the signal has been corrupted or lost. Some of the more recent key fobs employ sophisticated encryption techniques to prevent thieves from intercepting signals and creating unauthorised key fobs or remotes that can unlock a car. You will probably need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer to re-program the fob and restore its function.

Some automakers offer their own instructions for reprogramming the key fob of their vehicles. Often, these procedures are simple enough to do at home. This method is not recommended for those who do not have extensive experience with electronics. This type of work is best left to professionals.

Key fobs receive lots of wear and tear, particularly when they are often used and handled. The buttons on a key fob can get jostled around, and the case itself may crack or break. Keep a spare fob on you at all time. This will save you time if your remote breaks down while you're out and out and about. Keep it near your bed at all times, so that you can press the panic button if you hear noises at night.