Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subject to a lot of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break based on the way they are stored and how often they are thrown around.
The majority of key fob issues are easy to fix. Some key fob issues are more serious, and require assistance from a professional. Locksmiths can be a great resource in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The key fobs for cars are quite smart, but that does not mean they do not sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. However, mobile car key repair doesn't always fix the issue, as you could also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of the potential issue, and frequently include a mechanical key inside the fob for use in such an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release button or latch located behind the fob (check the user's manual for details). Pressing this button, you can open the fob to reveal a physical key you can use to unlock your car.
It is also necessary to be nearer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery dies, limiting its range of operation.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction that the previous one (the positive side facing up towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it. This will ensure that the battery has been installed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch in the back and prying the fob apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so make sure not to damage it! If you're not confident in doing this yourself it's also possible to send your fob to an expert. Since it's a routine service the majority of auto shops will replace the battery in fobs for a minimal cost. Some dealers will even do it for free depending on the model and make of the car.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if your key fob doesn't work. This is the quickest fix and will most likely fix the issue. If your fob is still not working after a battery change it could be due damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
The damage to the car key fob for many reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water or a damaged circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the vehicle's receiver and prevent the doors of your car and/or ignition from opening or turning on. If your fob is damaged, it's likely that you'll need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your keychain could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue however, it's best to take the fob to have it professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you are using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list on the internet or in many hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. A battery that is not a perfect match can have issues transmitting powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the fob's internal components.
In rare instances it could be the case that the issue isn't 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 available). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, make sure an expert check the electronic components and the receiver to ensure that they are working properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other parts to fail. When a key fob stops functioning, it is important to determine whether there's an obvious cause like a cracked case or a damaged internal component. It's also essential to examine other parts of the vehicle such as the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to get a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix it. It might be necessary to reprogram the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home and requires special equipment.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is especially common if the fob is dropped or left in hot weather.
In time, the internal wiring in the key fob may wear down. car key repair service could lead to the button not functioning when it's pressed, or only functioning when it's press very hard. It could also result in the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
Most key fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This is a great way to help restore a key fob's functioning properly and it's a good idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.
A damaged battery is the primary reason that a key fob won't start or function. The majority of mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly however, if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can buy a 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 has 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 the above is the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement and help getting it programmed for your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
Car key fobs are a convenient convenience that allows you to unlock your car's doors and start the engine. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be quite frustrating. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances, it could involve a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your vehicle is cut off. This connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
Other issues can occur when the key fob no longer sends an energizing signal. This can happen if the key is damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be done by following the directions provided on the key fob. It's also recommended to carry an additional key to use it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's possible that the fob isn't getting an adequate signal from the car. This could be due to a weak car battery 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 doesn't light up when one of the buttons is press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
Another possible reason for the fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system is hindering it from sending a strong signal. This could be the case if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if there's a software issue.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it isn't worth the effort to fix it, you need to purchase an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options, and some can be delivered directly to your home.