Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they're knocked around, their buttons may become stuck or broken.
Luckily, car key repair near me with the key fob are simple to solve. Certain key fob issues are more severe and require expert assistance. A locksmith can be of great help in these instances.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart However, that doesn't mean that they don't occasionally get stuck on the "not responding zone". When this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. This doesn't solve the problem because there could be a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually install a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just this kind of emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user manual for more details). When you press this button, you will be able to open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to unlock the car.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is the fact that you have to be much closer to your car in order to unlock and open it than before. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery is depleted, limiting its range of operation.
The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which appears like tiny silver coins) for your fob and follow the user's manual or video instructions on how to remove the old battery. Then, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was placed (the positive side should be facing upwards toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its lock/unlock and start functions to be certain the new battery was placed correctly.
You can access 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 operate your car! You can also take your key fob to an expert in case you're not comfortable making it your own. Many auto shops will swap the battery of a fob for a small fee as it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers might even be willing to perform the swap for free, based on the model and year of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if the key fob doesn't work. This is the easiest solution and will solve the issue. If your fob is still not functioning after a battery change, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
The key fob in your car can be damaged due to various reasons, including physical injury, exposure to water, or a corroded board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the receiver in your vehicle, which then prevents your car's doors and/or ignition from locking or starting. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll require an expert to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and may begin to fail to register your press accurately. You could 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.
It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a perfect match for your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or in most hardware stores. You should always consult your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what type of battery it needs. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals or providing sufficient power to internal components.
In the rarest of cases, it could be that the issue isn't the key fob itself but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if there is). If your key's physical counterpart does not allow you to start your car, you should have a mechanic check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they're functioning properly.
Fob that is damaged
A key fob contains numerous components that are interconnected, and one failure can cause other parts to fail. When a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause such as a damaged case or a damaged internal component. Check the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to make sure they are working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, you should obtain a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. It could be necessary to reprogram the fob to connect to your car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires special equipment.
Over time the contacts on buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is especially true when you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob could be worn out over time. It can lead to buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It can also lead to the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This is often able to help restore a key fob's its original function and it's a great idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A damaged battery is the most common reason why the key fob won't start or function. Most car dealers and mechanics can replace the batteries quickly, but if you feel comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a new battery at an hardware store or big-box retailer and follow instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board, or bent or corroded battery contact points. 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 to your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
Car key fobs are a handy convenience that allows you to unlock your car doors and begin the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to be working intermittently. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is to identify why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
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 the car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions included with the key fob. Also, you should keep a spare car key in case your primary key is lost.
It's possible that the fob isn't receiving an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to an insufficient car battery, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the problem by using a remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when you press any of the buttons, it could be that the battery has to be replaced or that the fob is been damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also prevent the fob from sending a strong signal. This could be the case if your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there is a software problem.
If you're unable to solve the issue or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then you should think about buying a new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some can be delivered directly to your home.