Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs are subjected to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they are jostled, their buttons can become stuck or broken.

Luckily, most key fob issues are relatively easy to resolve. However, some issues are more serious and will require professional help. This is when a locksmith can be of assistance.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key fobs are quite smart however that doesn't mean they don't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. But that doesn't always solve the problem, because you may also have an issue with one of the battery connector's terminals.

Car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they usually put a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in this kind of emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for more details). When you press this button, you can open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to open the car.

You will also need to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob loses power when the battery dies. This reduces its range.

Replacing the battery is straightforward and relatively inexpensive. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to the size of a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction that the previous one (the positive side 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.

Certain key fobs may be difficult to open however, you should be able to open them by locating the latch, switch, or screw at the back of the fob and then tearing it apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to damage it! You can also take your fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Many auto shops will swap batteries for fobs for a nominal fee as it's an everyday repair service. Some dealers might even offer it for free depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Fob not working

Replace the batteries if your key fob isn't working. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the issue. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.

Damage can happen to the car key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver which can then stop your car's doors or ignition from opening or even starting. You may have to hire a professional to replace the fob if it's damaged.

The buttons on your keychain might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber can wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and may start to fail to register your pressing accurately. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined to make more extensive repairs.

It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a exact match for your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or in most hardware stores, and you must always consult the owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which type of battery it needs. If the battery isn't the correct fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals and providing enough power to internal components.

In very rare cases it could be that the issue is not the key fob itself but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system and you want to test it, you can do so by opening the door using a physical key and then beginning the car using the inductive backup (if available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your car check with a mechanic the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine whether they're working properly.

Fobs that are damaged

A key fob is made up of many components and a single malfunction could cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it is important to look for obvious causes such as cracks in the casing or a damaged component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure they're working properly.

If the key fob is damaged, you should find a replacement at your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of trying to repair it. It may be necessary to reprogram the fob for the car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.

The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to send signals to the circuit board of the key fob, but these will wear down over time. This is more common when you drop the device or leave it in a hot climate.

In time the internal wiring of the key fob could get worn out. This can result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also result in the car not being able to start or unlock when the fob is pressed.

Most fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This is often able to restore a key fob to functioning properly, and it's a good practice to clean it regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.

A bad battery is the primary reason why the key fob won't turn on or work. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly however, if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can buy a battery from an hardware store or big-box retailer and follow instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.

The worst case scenario is that your key car repair fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks or tiny electronic components that are not fully attached to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded battery contact points. If you observe any of these issues, you should consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to get a replacement key fob and assistance in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob is not programming

Car key fobs are an excellent option that lets you unlock your car's doors and begin the engine. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to be working intermittently. In some cases the problem is solved by replacing the battery. However, in other circumstances, it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine why the fob isn't functioning correctly.

One of the main reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is broken. You may be able to reset the connection without needing a key fob repair service.

Other issues could arise when the key fob no longer sends a clear signal. This can happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be done by following the instructions provided with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry a spare key with you, so that you can make use of it in the event that your primary key isn't working.

The fob might not be receiving an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due to an insufficient car key lock repair near me battery or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. You can test the fob to determine whether this is the problem by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it may be that the battery has to be replaced or the fob is been damaged.

An immobilizer on your car may hinder a fob from sending a clear signal. This can occur if your key repair shop fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.

If you're not able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the effort of trying to repair the fob, key repair shop you should consider buying a new one. You can find low-cost options from many online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your doorstep.