The 10 Most Scariest Things About Key Fob Repair Service
car key repair shop can be subjected to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they're jostled, their buttons can become stuck or broken.
Most key fob problems are simple to fix. However, some issues are more serious and will require professional help. Locksmiths can be a huge help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs are pretty smart however, it doesn't mean they can't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this happens. This won't fix the issue because it could be due to an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car makers are aware of the potential issue, and often add a second mechanical key in the fob for use in such an emergency. To access this, find the small release button or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for specifics). Pressing this can allow you to unlock the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
You'll also need to be close to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob's transmitter loses power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. You'll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which is similar to an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user guide to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to be certain the battery was installed correctly.
Some key fobs are a little tricky to open, but you should be able to do it by locating the latch, switch or screw at the back of the fob, and then prying it open. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to harm it! You can also take your fob to a professional if you are not comfortable doing it yourself. Many auto shops will change the battery of a fob for a nominal fee as it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers will even offer to complete the task for free based on the model and make of the car.
Fob Isn't Working
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and will likely resolve the problem. If your device is not working after a change of battery, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
The key fob in your car can be damaged due to various reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a damaged or corroded board. These issues can prevent your key from communicating with the vehicle's receiver which can then stop your car's doors or ignition from unlocking or starting. If your fob is damaged it's likely you will need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less responsive or clicky and may begin to fail to detect your press accurately. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is usually best to get the fob examined by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you're using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that is not a perfect match can have problems transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the internal components of the fob.
In rare instances, it could be that the issue isn't the key fob itself but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the doors with an actual key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if available). If your physical key does not work or open your car, make sure an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they're functioning properly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob is made up of many components that function together and a single failure could cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work it's crucial to check for obvious causes like a cracked casing or a damaged component. Check the horn, light and other parts of the vehicle to make sure they are working properly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, you should find a replacement at your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. It might be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts that transmit signals to the circuit board of the key fob however, these contacts will wear down over time. This is particularly true if the device is dropped or left in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob may be worn out over time. This could result in the button not working when it's pressed, or only functioning when it's press very hard. It could also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock once the fob is used.
The majority of fobs have an outer cover made of plastic which can be loosened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This is often able to restore a key fob to proper function and it's a great idea to do it often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A bad battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or function. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you are confident in installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase an additional one from the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the steps on YouTube or in your owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks in the case, tiny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board, or corroded or bent battery contact points. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions for a replacement and assistance getting it programmed to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
Car key fobs are an excellent feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and then start the engine. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some instances, the issue can be solved by replacing the battery. However, in other situations it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is determining the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and the car is broken. remote key fob repair can sometimes reset this connection without needing a key fob repair service.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other issues could occur. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, try to resync the key with your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare key with you to utilize it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
The fob may not receive a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see if this is the issue by using the remote tester. If the tester does not illuminate when you press any of the buttons, it could be that the battery has to be replaced or the fob is been damaged.
Another reason that a fob not sending the right signal is that the car's immobilizer system is blocking it. This can happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle, or if there is a software issue.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it isn't worth the effort to repair it, you should purchase an entirely new one. There are low-cost options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can be delivered directly to your door.