12 Companies Are Leading The Way In Key Fob Repair Service
Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are knocked around, their buttons may get stuck or damaged.
Most key fob issues are easy to fix. Some key fob issues are more severe and require expert assistance. This is where a locksmith can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite smart However, that doesn't mean they do not sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this happens. However, that's repair broken car key to the issue, as you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car makers are aware of the possibility of a problem, and they often add a second mechanical key in the fob to use in such an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user manual for specifics). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob and gain access to an actual key that you can use to unlock your car.
You will also need to be closer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob's transmitter loses power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and relatively cheap. You'll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to ensure that the new battery was placed correctly.
Some key fobs are difficult 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 tearing it apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to work with your vehicle! You can also take the fob to a professional should you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself. Since it's a common service that most auto shops will replace the battery on a fob for a nominal charge. Some dealers will even complete the task for free based on the model and year of your car.
Fob not working
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and will likely resolve the issue. If your device doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be due to damage.
The key fob in your car can be damaged due to various reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water, or a damaged or corroded board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from opening. You may have to hire a professional to replace your key if it's damaged.
The buttons on your device may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less responsive or clicky and may begin to fail to register 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.
Double check that the battery you're using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores, and you must always refer to your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the type of battery it needs. A battery that is not a perfect match can have problems transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.
In the rarest of cases it could be that the problem is not 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 door with a physical key and then beginning the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If your key isn't working to open or start your vehicle check with a mechanic the receiver and electronic components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Fob Damaged
A key fob is made up of many components and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a key fob ceases functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's an obvious cause like a cracked case or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also essential to examine other areas of the vehicle like the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
If the fob for your key is damaged, it's recommended to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. The fob could require reprogramming to the vehicle and this can't usually be done at home, and requires specialized equipment to do this.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts that transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board, but these can wear down over time. This is especially common if the fob is dropped or left in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also become worn out over time. This can result in buttons that don't function when pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. This can also result in the vehicle not being able start or unlock after the fob is pressed.
Most fobs have a plastic cover that can be opened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This can often help restore a key fob's functioning properly and it's a great idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A damaged battery is usually the reason the key fob will not work or turn on. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery quickly. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself, you can purchase a new one at the big-box or a hardware store, and follow the instructions on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If any of the above is the case, it's a good idea to speak with an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement as well as assistance getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
Car key fobs are a convenient feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and then start the engine. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery but in other cases, it could involve an even more complex repair. The first step is determining why the fob doesn't work properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and your car is broken. The connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
Other problems can arise when the key fob isn't able to sends an energizing signal. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be accomplished by following the directions provided by the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an extra key, so that you can utilize it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be caused by weak car batteries or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see whether this is the problem by using an external tester. If the tester does not light up when you press one of the buttons, it could be that the battery is in need of replacement or the fob is been damaged.
The immobilizer in your car could hinder a fob from sending a strong signal. This can occur when your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if there's a software issue.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, you should look into buying a replacement. You can find affordable options from many online retailers, and some of these can be delivered directly to your door.