Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're kept and how often they're knocked around, their buttons may be damaged or stuck.
Luckily, most problems with the key fob are easy to resolve. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require assistance from a professional. A locksmith can be a great resource in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart however that doesn't mean they won't sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. This won't fix the issue because it could be due to a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this issue, and they frequently install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release button or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for details). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob and access an actual key that you can use to unlock your car.
It is also necessary to be close to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter loses strength as its battery ages and limits its range of operation.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively inexpensive. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's guide to remove the old battery. Then, replace the new battery in the same way that the old one was placed (the positive side should face upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to be certain the new battery was installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch at the back and then prying the fob apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to cause damage! If you're not comfortable doing this yourself it's also possible to take your fob to an expert. Many auto shops will change a fob's battery at a minimal cost, since it's such a common repair service. Some dealers may even do it for no cost, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
Replace the batteries if your key fob isn't working. This is the quickest fix and will likely resolve the issue. If your device is not working after a change of battery, it may be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The damage to your car key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, water exposure or a corroded circuit board. These issues can prevent your key from sending a signal to the vehicle's receiver, which then prevents your car's doors and/or ignition from unlocking or turning on. If your fob is damaged it's likely you will need a professional to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may cease to register your presses. Try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to be professionally evaluated for more thorough repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a exact match for the fob you're using. You can find a list on the internet or in many hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that isn't an ideal match could have problems transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.
In rare instances, it could be that the problem is not with your key fob but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using an actual key to open the door, and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if there is). If your key isn't working to open or start your car check with a mechanic the receiver and electronic components of your car to see if they are functioning correctly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of numerous components that work together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. When a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious like a damaged or cracked case, or a broken internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure they're functioning properly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's best to find a replacement at your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of trying to fix it. It might be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires special equipment.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is especially true if you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob can be worn out over time. It could result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only can be used when pressed extremely strongly. This can also result in the car not being able to start or unlock when the fob is used.
The majority of fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened up and then cleaned with soap and water. This can often restore a key fob to proper function and it's a good idea to do it regularly to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A damaged battery is the primary reason why the key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you're confident in installing the battery yourself then you can buy a new one at the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded battery contact points. If you find any of these problems you should contact an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain a new key fob and assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are a convenient feature that lets you unlock your car 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 issue may be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning remote is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for costly key fob repair.
When the key fob is no longer sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key with your car. key repair near me can be accomplished by following the instructions that came with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry a spare key with you to utilize it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be caused by a weak car battery, 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 does not blink when you press any of the buttons, it could be that the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is broken.
An immobilizer on your car may hinder the fob from sending a strong signal. This could be the case in the event that your key fob isn't been programmed correctly, or if there is a software problem.
If you are unable to fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you need to purchase the new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some are delivered directly to your home.