How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Although we put them through a lot keys are not indestructible. They are able to be destroyed in various ways.

The most frequent issue is a dead battery, other issues can be much more serious. Many of these issues can be solved with a simple fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is the main reason for a key fob that is not working. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially when they are exposed to extreme heat or cold temperatures, humidity or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.

The LED light will generally stop glowing when the battery in your car key fob is low. The fob may be unable to function from the same distance it was previously working to. In this case it could be necessary to re-program your key fob or replace it completely.

Fortunately replacing the car key repairs near me key fob battery is a simple task. Find out the type of battery used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. If you're not sure, an easy Google search will help. Once you have found the kind of battery you want and the key fob, you can open it at the seam. You will need to use an small screwdriver with a flat head or even your fingernail to split the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a brand new one. Insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers might not be aware that their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons aren't responding. In some cases this issue can be resolved by reprogramming the fob but that can be costly and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to see whether they are able to start your car and get it back on the road.

If you've tried both solutions and your car still doesn't start, it's time to contact an expert. A trained technician can tell whether your car's computer requires changing its programming, or if the fob simply needs a new battery. They may also recommend an auto repair shop that can replace your key fob. In the end, though sometimes, a brand new fob is the most effective solution.

Circuit Board Damage

A key fob is able to withstand some physical abuse and is not impervious to destruction. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is important to take care of these components to ensure your key fob remains in good working order.

The most straightforward thing to do is to make sure the battery in the key fob isn't dying. Replace the battery to see if it fixes your issue. If this does not work, you may need to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. This can be a challenge since some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them up and broken you could end up damaging your key fob if try to pull it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, however you must always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.

A damaged or defective key circuit board for the fob is another common problem. This can be caused by many things, such as moisture or dirt that gets into the battery compartment, software issues or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob has stopped working completely, consider having it reprogrammed by a locksmith that specializes in this type of work.

Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen if you have other wireless devices around that transmit at the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case you need to contact the other device manufacturer to ensure that your key fob will not be 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. This is a harder fix however, there are guides online that show you how to fix it yourself. Be careful to be careful, however, since the circuit board inside your key fob is very small and could easily break if handled roughly. If you do this yourself, be sure to use a good quality SMT switch and solder it in place correctly.

Out Buttons Out Buttons

Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot of wear and tear. They are susceptible to being lost and spend a significant amount of time being jostled in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause the buttons to wear out or become stuck. A simple adjustment can fix the problem.

Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that detect when they have been hit. They're made to do this because they can help reduce the likelihood of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when pushed it's a sign that they're worn-out and need to be replaced.

The circuit board inside the key fob also transmits signals to your car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands and also instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside is damaged, your key fob will not be able to unlock or start your engine. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, blunt force, or something scratching the circuit board.

You'll be able to tell that the buttons on your key fob are wearing out if you find yourself pressing more than usual to get them to function. The fob may not be sending an alert to your car or have a lower range.

If you're unable to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, it's important to contact a locksmith near you immediately. They can determine if the key fob is damaged or the cylinder of your ignition is worn out.

Fortunately, most car key fob problems aren't serious or complicated. Keep an extra key fob in your vehicle always in case you end up being shocked by a malfunctioning one. This will ensure that you're not trapped in a place because of a lost or malfunctioning key. If you do lose your spare car key A locksmith can reset it to ensure it is compatible with the ignition in your car. They can also repair car key fob any internal damage to your key fob.

Broken Case

The case of your key fob provides more than just protection for the buttons and battery. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you hit the button on your key fob. The board transmits the signal from your keyfob to your car.

If this board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to function. Sometimes a dead key fob will just need to be reprogrammed, which is something your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.

Batteries could be the reason of your key fob not working. The battery can be replaced at home. You can find a replacement battery at the local auto parts store or online. These batteries aren't only intended for key fobs.

There are several ways to open up a key fob and get inside it, depending on the type. A quick search online should show you which type of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it requires. From there, you can purchase an alternative and then simply pop the old one out, and then the new one in.

The most important thing to consider when fixing a broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons any further. When you try to break a key fob with a hard edge like a screwdriver can damage the case or even scratch the plastic. A replacement case isn't much and you can purchase a complete fob assembly including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for under $40.

So, if your key fob isn't working, check to see if the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the case, you can have it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. Otherwise, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Make sure to verify the warranty on any fob replacement or used that you purchase on the internet.