Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to a lot of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how often they are jostled.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require assistance from a professional. A locksmith can be a huge help in these cases.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become pretty intelligent however, it doesn't mean they can't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. But that doesn't always solve the problem, because you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually include a spare key mechanical inside the fob to be used in the case of an emergency. To gain key fob repair service near me to this, find the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for specifics). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's batteries are dying is that you have to be closer to your car in order to unlock and open it than before. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This reduces its range.
The replacement of the battery is simple and fairly inexpensive. You'll need a button-cell battery (which resembles a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way as the old one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
Some key fobs can be difficult to open, but you should be able to open them by locating the latch, switch, or screw on the back of the fob and then tearing it apart. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so take care not to damage it! You can also take your fob to an expert in case you're not comfortable making the change yourself. Many auto shops will swap a fob's battery at a minimal cost as it's an everyday repair service. Some dealers may even do it for no cost dependent on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing you need to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will solve the issue. If your device still isn't working after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
Damage can happen to your car key fob due to a variety of reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water or a corroded circuit board. These problems can prevent your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which could stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. You may have to hire a professional to replace your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your fob may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear away, making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They also may stop registering your presses. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is recommended to have the fob professionally examined to make more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the new battery you're using is a exact match for the fob you're using. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or in most hardware stores. You must always consult the owner's manual or the 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 be a problem transmitting strong signals or providing sufficient power to internal components.
In some cases the issue could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door, and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle then a mechanic should inspect the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.
Fob Is Damaged
A key fob is composed of many parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's a clear cause such as a damaged case or a damaged internal component. It's also essential to examine other components of the vehicle, such as the lights and horn to determine whether they're working as expected.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix it. It may be necessary to reset the fob for the car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to send signals to the circuit board on the key fob, but these may wear out over time. This is especially true when you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
In time, the internal wiring in a key fob can also get worn out. It can lead to buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
The majority of key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This is often able to bring a fob back to its original function and it's a good idea to do it regularly to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A faulty battery is typically the reason the key fob will not turn on or work. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery quickly. If you are comfortable installing the battery yourself, you can purchase a new one at a big-box store or hardware store and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks or tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit boards or corroded and bent contact points for batteries. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance getting it programmed to your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
Car key fobs are an excellent option that lets you unlock your car doors and then start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some instances, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. However, in other cases, it might require a more intricate repair. The first step is to figure out the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your car is broken. This connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other problems could occur. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided by the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare key with you in case you need to use it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to an insufficient battery in the car, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob to determine if it's the problem. If the tester does not light up when any of the buttons are pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
The immobilizer in your car could be preventing the fob from sending a strong signal. This can happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle or if there is a software problem.
If you're not able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, you should consider buying a new one. You can find low-cost options from many online retailers, and some of these can be delivered directly to your doorstep.