Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs are subjected to a lot of abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how they are tossed around.

Most key fob problems are easy to fix. However, there are some that are more complicated and require expert assistance. This is when locksmiths help.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key fobs have gotten pretty intelligent, but it doesn't mean they can't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this happens. It's not a solution because there could be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car makers are aware of the potential issue, and often include a mechanical key inside the fob to use in the event of an emergency. It is accessible by finding the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for further details). Pressing this can allow you to unlock the fob, and then gain access to an actual key that you can use to unlock your vehicle.

Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is the fact that you have to be closer to the car to unlock and open it than before. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter loses strength when its battery is depleted which limits the range of operation.

Replacing the battery is easy and relatively inexpensive. Just be sure to buy the button cell battery (which appears like an incredibly small silver coin) to replace your fob, and follow the user's guideline or video instructions on how to remove the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction that the previous one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the battery has been installed correctly.

Certain key fobs may be difficult to open but you should be able to open them by finding the latch, switch, or screw at the back of the fob and then tearing it apart. Be careful not to break the fob because you'll need it to connect to your car! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own then you can send your key fob to a professional. Since it's a common service the majority of auto shops will replace the battery on the fob for a small cost. Some dealers will even do it for free, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Working

Replace the batteries if your key fob isn't working. This is the fastest fix and will likely resolve the problem. If your device still does not work after changing the battery it could be caused by damage.

The key fob in your car can be damaged for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from unlocking. You may need to get a professional replacement for your fob if it is damaged.

The buttons on your keychain could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and make the buttons less responsive or clicky and may begin to fail to detect your press accurately. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is usually best to get the fob examined by a professional to make more extensive repairs.

It is important to ensure that the new battery you're using is a perfect match for the fob you're using. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at many hardware stores. You should always consult your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which type of battery it needs. If the battery is not the correct fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals and providing enough power to internal components.

In rare cases the issue could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the doors with the physical key and start the car with the inductive electronic car key repair near me backup (if it is available). If your physical key doesn't open or start your car check with a mechanic the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.

Damaged Fob

A key fob contains many parts that work together and a single malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob stops functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's an obvious cause such as a damaged case or a broken internal component. Check the horn, light and other components of the vehicle to ensure they're functioning properly.

If the fob for your key is damaged, you should get a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. The fob could require reprogramming in the car this is something that can't usually be done at home, and it requires special equipment to do this.

The buttons on a key fob use contacts that transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob, but these will wear down over time. This is most common when the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.

Over time the internal wiring inside a key fob can also get worn out. It could result in buttons that don't function when pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock after the fob has been used.

The majority of key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can often help restore a key fob's functioning properly and it's a great practice to clean it often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.

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

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, like cracks within the case, tiny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board or corroded or bent battery contact points. If you observe any of these problems, you should consult an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Programming

The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. When they stop working or work intermittently, they can be a hassle. In some instances, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. In other cases, it might require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.

One of the most common causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your car is broken. You can sometimes reset this connection without having to call an repair service for your key fob.

Other issues could arise when the key fob no longer sends a strong signal. This could happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your vehicle. You can do this by following the directions on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an additional key in case you need to make use of it in the event that the primary key isn't working.

It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This could be due to weak car batteries or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. With a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the issue. If the tester doesn't light up when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be damaged.

A car's immobilizer could also prevent the fob from sending a clear signal. This could be the case when your key 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, then consider buying a new one. You can find affordable options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can be delivered directly to your door.