Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can become stuck or break based on how they are stored and how often they are thrown around.
The majority of key fob issues are fixable. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require professional assistance. Locksmiths can be a great resource in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite smart however, that doesn't mean they don't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. When this happens, it's time to replace the battery. However, this doesn't always fix the issue, as there could be a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car makers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently add a second mechanical key inside the fob to be used in an emergency. To gain access to this, find the small release button or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for details). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob and access an actual key that you can use to unlock your vehicle.
You will also need to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob loses energy when its battery is depleted. This reduces its range.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to be certain the new battery was placed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch on the back and then prying the fob in two. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll need it to connect to your car! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own it's also possible to send your fob to an expert. Since it's a common service the majority of auto shops will change the battery on the fob for a small cost. Some dealers will even do it for no cost dependent on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing you should do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the issue. If your fob still doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be due to damage.
The damage to your car key fob for many reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water or a damaged circuit board. These issues can prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver which can then stop your car's doors and/or ignition from unlocking or starting. If your fob is damaged, it's likely that you'll need an expert 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 out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky', and they can begin to fail to detect your pressing accurately. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem however, it's best to take the fob to a professional assessed for more extensive repairs.
Make sure that the battery you are using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on the fob to find out more. A battery that is not the perfect match may have problems transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the internal components of the fob.
In some 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 door with a physical key and then start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your vehicle then a mechanic should inspect the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob is made up of a variety of parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If 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. It's also important to check other components of the vehicle like the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it is damaged than to try to repair it. It could be necessary to reprogramme the fob for the car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is more common when you drop the device or leave it in hot weather.
Over time the internal wiring inside a key fob can also get worn out. This can result in the button not functioning when it's pressed, or only working when pressed extremely hard. This could also lead to the car not being able to start or unlock once the fob has been used.
The majority of key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can help restore a keyfob to its original purpose. It's recommended to clean it regularly to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A bad battery is the most common reason that a key fob won't start or function. Many mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the batteries in a short time however, if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can buy a battery at an hardware store or big-box retailer and follow 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, tiny electronic components not completely connected to the circuit boards, or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If you notice any of these issues you should contact an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
Car key fobs are a convenient convenience that allows you to unlock your car doors and begin the engine. If they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be quite frustrating. In some cases, the issue can be solved by replacing the battery. In other situations it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine why the fob isn't functioning properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and your car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other problems can 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. This can be done by following the instructions on the key fob. Also, you should carry a spare car key in case your primary key fails.
The fob might not be receiving an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be due to weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna problem. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and see if it is the issue. If the tester does not illuminate when you press any of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery has to be replaced or the fob is broken.
key fob repair service on your car may hinder the fob from sending out a strong signal. This can happen if your fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle or if there is an issue with the software.
If you're unable to repair the fob, or it's not worth the effort to fix it, you should purchase a new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some are delivered directly to your home.