How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Key fobs can become damaged, even if we use them a lot. They are able to break down in various ways.

Other issues can be more serious than a dead battery. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be solved by a simple DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

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

The LED light will typically stop glowing when the battery in the car key fob is running low. The fob might also stop working from the same distance it used to. In this case, it may be necessary to reprogram the key fob or even replace it entirely.

Fortunately, replacing a car key fob battery is a simple task. Find out the type of battery that is used. The type of battery should be stamped on the side of your key fob. Google can assist you if you're not sure. Unlock the key fob along the seam once you've identified the type of battery. You'll need an small screwdriver with a flat head or even your fingernail split the two halves. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing towards the buttons in the fob.

Some drivers aren't aware that their fob is dead until they lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons don't work anymore. In some cases this issue can be resolved by reprogramming the fob however, this can be expensive and time-consuming. You can also contact roadside assistance to see whether they are able to start your car and get it back on the road.

If you've tried both of these solutions but your car won't start then it's time to call a professional. A certified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires reconfiguring, or if your key fob is only in need of replacement batteries. They can also recommend a reputable auto shop to replace your key fob. Sometimes, however, a new fob could be the best option.

Damaged Circuit Board

A key fob is able to withstand some physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair amount of wear and tear with time and it's crucial to be vigilant and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob working efficiently.

Verify that the battery still functioning in your key fob. Replace the battery to see if it fixes your problem. If not, you'll have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It is sometimes difficult to open some key fobs since they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You can damage your fob by trying to take it apart. You can purchase a specific tool for opening your key fob. But, you must adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.

Another problem that is frequently encountered is a damaged or damaged circuit board in the key fob. This can be due to various factors like dirt or moisture that gets into the battery compartment software, hardware issues, or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob is not functioning, you might think about getting it reprogrammed. This can be accomplished by a locksmith that specializes in this type of work.

Radio interference is another possible cause. This can occur in the event that you have other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, check with the other device manufacturers to ensure that your key fob isn't being affected by their signals.

It's also possible that your key fob may have a bad switch or other electrical component that should be replaced. There are online guides that will help you fix this yourself. You should be careful to be careful, however, since the circuit board inside your key fob is small and can easily break if handled roughly. If you're doing this yourself, be sure to use an SMT switch of good quality and solder the switch in the correct position.

Buttons that are worn out

Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot wear and tear. They're susceptible to being dropped and often spend a lot of time jostled around in your pocket or purse. This jostling can sometimes cause buttons to wear out or get stuck. In this case it's possible that a simple adjustment will be all that's needed to restore the button's functionality.

Modern key fobs come with sensors that are able to detect when they've been press. They're designed to do this so that they can lower the risk of someone stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when pushed, that's an indication that they're worn out and require to be replaced.

The circuit board that is in the key fob also sends signals to your car. Those signals include commands to unlock and lock and instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then the key fob you have may not unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. This kind of damage is typically caused by water or blunt force.

If you're having to press the buttons more than usual in order to make them function the key fob's buttons are getting worn out. Additionally the fob might stop sending a signal to the car or have less range than it did prior to.

Contact a locksmith immediately when you're not able to use your key fob for your vehicle. They can tell if the key fob is damaged or your ignition cylinder is worn out.

Fortunately, most car keyfob issues aren't very complicated or even serious. Keep an extra key fob in your vehicle at all times to avoid being surprised by a malfunctioning device. You'll never be caught in the middle because of an unresponsive or lost key. If you have lost your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They'll also be able fix any internal damage that may have been caused to your key fob.

Broken Case

The case of the key fob does more than protect the batteries and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic whenever you press the key fob button. This board receives 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 operate. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead can be reprogrammed which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can assist you with.

Another reason your key fob might not be working is because the batteries are not working. This is a simple solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. The positive side is that you can find a replacement battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store since the batteries aren't limited to key fobs.

Depending on the kind of key fob, there are a variety of ways to open it up and get inside. A quick search on the internet will reveal what kind of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it requires. You can then buy a new one, take the old one out and then insert the new one into.

The main concern when you repair a broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons any further. If you attempt to pull apart the key fob using a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could crack the plastic or break the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can find the entire fob including the electronic car key repair near me components on eBay or Amazon for under $40.

If your key fob doesn't work, you should check if you've damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this isn't the case, you can have it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. If not, it could be the time to purchase an upgrade. Just be sure to check for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs that you purchase on the internet.