Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are moved around, their buttons could become stuck or broken.

Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. But some are more serious and will require professional help. A locksmith can be a huge help in these situations.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key fobs have become pretty intelligent however this doesn't mean that they won't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. This won't fix the issue since there may be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a problem, and they often install an extra mechanical key in the fob to use in the event of an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user's manual to find out more). Pressing this button, you can open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to unlock your car.

You'll also need to be close to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery dies and limits the range of operation.

It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase the button cell battery (which appears to be 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 same way as the old one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it to ensure the new battery is placed correctly.

You can access key fobs by finding the latch, screw or switch at the back and prying the fob apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to damage it! You can also take the fob to a professional should you feel uncomfortable making the change yourself. Many auto shops will swap a fob's battery for a small fee as it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers might even do it for free dependent on the model and make of your vehicle.

Fob not working

The first thing you need to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix 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.

Damage can occur to the car key fob for many reasons including physical trauma, water exposure, or a corroded circuit board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the receiver in your vehicle which can then stop the doors of your car and/or ignition from locking or turning on. It is possible that you will need to hire a professional to replace the fob if it's damaged.

The buttons on your fob could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They can also stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is generally recommended to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.

Check that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in a majority of hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that is not a perfect match can have issues transmitting strong signals or supplying enough power to the fob's internal components.

In the rarest of cases, it could be that the issue isn't with your key fob but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door with an actual key and start the car with the inductive backup (if it is available). If your key isn't working to open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the electronic components and receiver of your car to see whether they're functioning properly.

Fobs that are damaged

A key fob contains many parts that work together and a single failure could cause other parts to fail. When a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause like a cracked case or a damaged internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the car to make sure they are working properly.

It's better to replace the key fob in case it is damaged than to attempt to repair it. The fob may require reprogramming in the vehicle, which is something that cannot be done at home and requires specialized equipment to do this.

The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the circuit board of the key fob however, these contacts may wear out over time. This is more likely if you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.

Over time the internal wiring inside the key fob may get worn out. This can result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or works when pressed very strongly. This can also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock once the fob is used.

Most key fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original purpose. It's an excellent idea to clean it often to avoid dirt destroying the inside.

A damaged battery is the primary reason why the key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you're comfortable with the installation then you can buy the new one from a big-box 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 is damaged internal damages, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards, or corroded and bent contact points for batteries. If any of these are the case, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance in programming it for your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Programming

Car key fobs are a handy feature that lets you unlock your car doors and then start the engine. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some cases the problem is solved by replacing the battery. In other cases, it might require a more intricate repair. The first step is to identify the reason why the fob isn't working properly.

One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key fob repair.

Other issues can occur when the key fob no longer sends a clear signal. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. car keying repair In either case, you should try to reconnect your key to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions provided by the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an additional key in case you need to make use of it in the case that your primary key isn't working.

It's possible that the fob doesn't receive an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to an insufficient battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the problem by using the remote tester. If the tester does not blink when you press one of the buttons, it may be that the battery is in need of replacement or that the fob is been damaged.

The immobilizer in your car could hinder the fob from sending a clear signal. This can occur when your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly, or if you have a software issue.

If you are unable to fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should buy a new one. You can find low-cost options from numerous online retailers, and some of these are even delivered to your door.