Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to many abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they get jostled, their buttons can be damaged or stuck.
Fortunately, the majority of problems with the key fob are simple to solve. However, some issues are more serious and will require professional help. This is when locksmiths can come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite intelligent However, that doesn't mean they do not sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". If this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. But that doesn't always solve the issue, since you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually include a spare key mechanical inside the fob to be used in the case of an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for more details). By pressing this button, you will be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key that you can use to open the car.
Another indication that your fob's batteries are dying is that you have to be much closer to the car to unlock and open it than before. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength as its battery ages and limits its range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Just be sure to buy the button cell battery (which looks like an incredibly small silver coin) for your fob and follow the user's guide or video on how to take out the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing up towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the new battery is placed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by finding the latch, screw, or switch on the back, and then tearing the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to operate your car! You could also take the fob to a professional in case you're not comfortable making the change yourself. Because it's a standard procedure, most auto shops will swap the battery on fobs for a minimal charge. Some dealers might even offer to complete the task for free based on the model and brand of the car.
Fob not working
The first thing you need to do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the issue. If your device still does not work after changing the battery it could be due to damage.
Damage can happen to your car key fob for a variety of reasons including physical trauma, exposure to water or a damaged circuit board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver and prevent your car's doors and/or ignition from unlocking or turning on. If your fob is damaged it's likely you will need an expert to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain may have worn away with repeated use. Rubber can wear out and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may cease to register your presses. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to examine the fob by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the battery you're using is a perfect match for the fob you're using. 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. If the battery is not the right one for your needs it could have problems transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.
In the rarest of cases it could be the case that the problem is not the key fob itself but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening broken car key repair near me the door using an actual key and starting the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If your key's physical counterpart does not open or start your car, you should have an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they're functioning properly.
Fob Is Damaged
A key fob is composed of a variety of parts and one issue can cause other parts to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it is important to examine the cause for obvious reasons such as cracked casings or a damaged component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the car to ensure they're working properly.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it is damaged than to try to repair it. The fob might need to be reprogrammed to the car this is something that can't usually be done at home and requires specialized equipment to do this.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob can wear out. This is most common when the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
Over time the internal wiring inside the key fob could wear down. This could result in a button not working when it's being pressed or only working when press very hard. It can also lead to the car not opening or locking when the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can often bring a fob back to functioning properly and it's a good practice to clean 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 work. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery quickly. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself then you can buy a new one at an online store or hardware store and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob has internal damages, such as cracks, tiny electronic components not fully attached to the circuit boards or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If you notice any of these issues, you should consult an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain a new key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are a handy option that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some cases the problem can be solved by replacing the battery. However, in other cases, it might require a more intricate repair. The first step is to figure out the reason for the fob not functioning properly.
The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and car is broken. You can sometimes reset this connection without having to call repair of your key fob.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This could happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions that came with the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key to use it in the event that the primary key isn't working.
It's possible that the fob isn't receiving an adequate signal from the car. This can be caused by a weak car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to determine if this is the issue by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't light up when you press one of the buttons, it could be that the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is broken.
A car's immobilizer could also hinder the fob from sending out a strong signal. This can occur when your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or you have a software issue.
If you can't fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should purchase a new one. You can find low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers, and some of these can even be delivered to your door.