Key Fob Repair Service

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

Most key fob problems are fixable. Some key fob issues are more severe and require expert assistance. This is when a locksmith can help.

Dead Fob Battery

The key fobs for cars are quite intelligent However, that doesn't mean they do not sometimes get stuck on the «not responding zone». When this happens, it's time to replace the battery. It's not a solution since there may be an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.

Automobile manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they often put a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of this kind of emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob and gain access to the physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.

You'll also need to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This reduces its range.

It is relatively easy to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which appears to be like a tiny silver coin) for your fob, and follow the user's guide or video on how to remove the old one. Then, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the previous one was placed (the positive side should be facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to make sure that the new battery was installed correctly.

You can access key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch in the back and then prying the fob in two. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to cause damage! You could also take the key fob to an expert if you are not comfortable making the change yourself. Because it's a standard procedure that most auto shops will swap the battery in a fob for a nominal fee. Some dealers will even offer it for free, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Working

The first thing to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is to replace the batteries. This is the fastest fix and is the most likely way to fix the issue. If your fob is still not functioning after a battery change, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.

Damage can occur to your car key fob for many reasons including physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your car, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from locking. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll require a professional to replace the component or the entire device.

The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They may also stop registering your presses. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is recommended to get the fob examined by a professional for more extensive repairs.

It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a perfect match to your fob. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for more information. A battery that isn't an ideal match could have problems transmitting powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the internal components of the fob.

In rare cases, the problem could be in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door with the physical key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your car, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components of your car to see if they are functioning correctly.

Fob is damaged

A key fob has numerous components that work together and a single malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases functioning, it is important to determine whether there's a clear cause like a damaged or cracked case, or a damaged internal component. It's also essential to examine other parts of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.

It's better to replace the key fob in case it is damaged than to try to repair it. The fob might require reprogramming to the vehicle and this cannot be done at home, and it requires specialized equipment to do this.

Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is particularly true if the fob gets dropped or left in hot weather.

As time passes, the internal wiring in a key fob can also wear down. It could result in the button not working when pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is activated.

Most key fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This is a great way to restore a key fob to its original function and it's a good idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.

A damaged battery is the most common reason why the key fob will not start 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 a hardware store or big-box retailer and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.

The worst-case scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to talk to an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions on a replacement as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob is not programming

Car key fobs are an excellent feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations, it could involve an intricate repair. The first step is determining the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.

The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and the car is damaged. This connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.

Other issues could arise when the key fob no more sends an energizing signal. This can happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, try to resync the key to your vehicle. This can be done by following the directions on the key fob. It is also recommended to keep a spare car key remote repair key in case your primary key is lost.

It's also possible that the fob isn't getting an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to an insufficient car battery, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine if this is the issue by using an external tester. If the tester does not blink when you press one of the buttons, it may be because the battery is in need of replacement or the fob is been damaged.

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

If you're unable to repair the fob, or it's not worth the effort to repair it, you need to purchase an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options, and some can be delivered to your residence.