Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can get stuck or break based on the way they are stored and how they are tossed around.

Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. However, there are some that are more complicated and require expert assistance. A locksmith can be a great resource in these cases.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key fobs have gotten pretty smart, key but this doesn't mean that they won't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. This doesn't solve the problem because it could be due to an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often include a spare key mechanical inside the fob in case of the case of an emergency. To access this, find the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for more details). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob and gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.

You will also need to be closer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob's transmitter loses power when its battery dies. This limits its range.

It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase the button cell battery (which appears like tiny silver coins) for your fob and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to remove the old one. Replace the battery in the same way as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to make sure that the new battery was placed correctly.

Certain key fobs may be a little tricky to open, but you should be able to do it by locating the latch, switch, or screw at the back of the fob, and then tearing it apart. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to cause damage! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own then you can take your key fob to a professional. Since it's a common service that most auto shops will replace the battery on a fob for a nominal fee. Some dealers might even offer to perform the swap for free, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Working

The first thing you need to 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 device is not working after a change of battery, it could be due damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.

Damage can happen to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons including physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These issues can stop your key from sending a signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which could stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely you will need a professional to repair the part or the entire device.

The buttons on your fob might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and eventually, they'll start to fail to register your press accurately. You can try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue However, it's generally recommended to send the fob to a professional evaluated for more thorough repairs.

It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a precise match for the fob you're using. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you must always consult the owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which kind of battery it requires. A battery that is not an ideal match could be unable to transmit strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.

In rare cases the issue could be 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 vehicle using the inductive backup system (if there is). If the physical key you have not work or open your car key repair cost, have a mechanic check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they're working correctly.

Fob that is damaged

A key fob is comprised of many parts, and one malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it's crucial to look for obvious causes such as cracks in the casing or a damaged part. It's also important to check other components of the vehicle like the horn and lights to see whether they're working as expected.

It's better to replace the key fob if it's damaged, rather than try to repair it. The fob could need to be reprogrammed to the car and this cannot be done at home, and requires specialized equipment to do this.

The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, these contacts will wear down over time. This is more common when you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.

The internal wiring of a key fob can also wear out over time. It can lead to a button that doesn't work when pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is used.

Most fobs have the cover of plastic that can be opened up and safely cleaned with soap and water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original function. It's recommended to clean it often to avoid dirt destroying the inside.

A bad battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or function. Most car dealers and mechanics can replace the batteries quickly however, if you're at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a new battery from an hardware store or big-box retailer and follow instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, teeny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement and help getting it programmed to your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Programming

car key fob repair service key fobs are a handy convenience that allows you to unlock your car's doors and begin the engine. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be a hassle. In some cases, the issue can be solved by replacing the battery. In other situations it may require a more intricate repair. The first step is to identify the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.

The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and your car is broken. You may be able to reset this connection without needing a key fob repair service.

If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided by the key fob. It is also recommended to carry a spare car key in case the primary key fails.

The fob may not receive a strong signal from the vehicle. This can be due to an insufficient battery in the car, interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. With a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the problem. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.

A car's immobilizer could also hinder the fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen when your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.

If you can't fix the fob, or it's not worth the effort to fix it, you should buy the new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some are delivered directly to your home.