Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs can be subjected to many abuse. Depending on how they're stored and how often they're jostled, their buttons can become stuck or broken.

Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to fix. But some are more serious and will require professional help. Locksmiths can be a great resource in these instances.

Dead Fob Battery

The key fobs for cars are quite intelligent, but that does not mean they won't sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. It's not a solution because it could be due to an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of the potential problem, and they often install an extra mechanical key in the fob to use in the event of an emergency. It is accessible by finding the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for further details). Pressing this will allow you to unlock the fob and gain access to the physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.

You'll also need to be nearer to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.

It is relatively easy to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase the button cell battery (which looks like a tiny silver coin) to replace your fob, and follow the user's guideline or video instructions on how to remove the old one. Then, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was placed (the positive side should be facing upward toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is installed correctly.

You can unlock some key fobs by locating the latch, screw or switch on the back and prying the fob off. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to cause damage! You can also take your fob to a professional in case you're not comfortable making the change yourself. Since it's a common service that most auto shops will replace the battery inside the fob for a small cost. Some dealers may even do it for no cost dependent on the make and model of your vehicle.

Fob not working

The first thing to do if 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 doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could be caused by damage.

The car key fob could be damaged for various reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded or damaged board. These problems can prevent your key from transmitting the signal to the receiver inside your car, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from locking. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll require an expert to replace the component or the entire device.

Similarly, the buttons on your device could have become worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and cause the buttons to become less responsive or clicky and eventually, they'll start to fail to register your press accurately. Try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to be professionally evaluated for more thorough repairs.

It is also important to confirm that the battery you're using is a perfect match for the fob you're using. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores, and you should always consult your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which type of battery it needs. If the battery is not the correct fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals or providing enough power to internal components.

In very rare cases, it could be that the issue is not with your key fob but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system (if there is). If your key isn't working to open or start your car check with a mechanic the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.

Fobs that are damaged

A key fob is composed of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to examine the cause for obvious reasons such as cracked casings or a damaged part. Check the horn, light and other components of the car to ensure that they are working properly.

If the fob for your key is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith rather than trying to fix it. It could be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.

The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts that transmit signals to the circuit board of the key fob, but these will wear down over time. This is especially common if the fob gets dropped or left in hot temperatures.

The internal wiring of a key fob can also wear out over time. This can result in the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when it's pressing extremely hard. This can also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock when the fob is used.

The majority of key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's an excellent idea to clean it often to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.

A damaged battery is the main reason that a key fob won't start or function. Many mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly but if you're at ease doing it yourself, you can purchase a new battery at the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.

The worst-case 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 contact points for batteries. If any of these are the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement and help in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Programming

The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. If they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be frustrating. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery but in other situations it could require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.

The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your vehicle is cut off. The connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.

When the key fob is not sending a strong signal, other problems could be experienced. This could be the result mobile car key repair near me of a key is damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, you should try to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the directions included with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an extra 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 isn't receiving a strong enough signal from the car. This can be caused by weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob to determine if it's the issue. If the tester does not light up when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob is broken.

An immobilizer on your car may prevent a fob from sending a strong signal. This could be the case if your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.

If you're not able to solve the issue or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then consider buying a new one. There are low-cost options from many online retailers and some can be delivered directly to your doorstep.