Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to a lot of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how they are tossed around.
The majority of key fob issues are easy to fix. However, key fob repairs near me are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when locksmiths can help.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite intelligent, but this doesn't mean that they won't occasionally get 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 there could be a bad connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
Car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they often install a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of such an emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user's manual to find out more). Pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a key that you can use to open the car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be much closer to your car in order to open and lock it than before. The transmitter of the fob loses energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. You'll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user's manual to take out the old battery. Then, replace the new battery in the same way that the old one was inserted (the positive side should face upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it. Make sure the battery has been installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by finding the latch, screw, or switch on the back and prying the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to connect to your car! If you're not confident in making this change yourself it's also possible to take your key fob to a professional. Because it's a standard procedure that most auto shops will swap the battery in fobs for a minimal charge. Some dealers will even do it for no cost, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing to do if your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your device is not functioning after a battery change, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The key fob in your car can be damaged due to a variety of reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a corroded or damaged board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver which can then stop your car's doors and/or ignition from opening or even starting. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely you will need an expert to repair the part or the entire device.
In the same way, the buttons on your fob may have worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less responsive or clicky and eventually, they'll begin to fail to register your presses reliably. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to be professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on your fob for further details. If the battery is not the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals or providing enough power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be that the problem is not with your key fob, 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 using the inductive backup system (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle then a mechanic should inspect the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Fob Is Damaged
A key fob has many parts that are interconnected and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to look for obvious causes such as cracks in the casing or a damaged part. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure they're working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, you should find a replacement at your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of trying to fix it. It may be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. This is not 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 more common when you drop the device or leave it outside in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob can also wear out over time. This can result in the button not working when it's pressed or only working when pressed extremely hard. It could also result in the car not being able to start or unlock when the fob has been used.
Most fobs come with a plastic cover that can be opened up and safely cleaned with soap and water. This is a great way to bring a fob back to its original function, and it's a good idea to do this regularly to avoid dirt damaging the insides.
A bad battery is usually the reason why a key fob will not work or turn on. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery quickly. If you are confident in installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase the new one from the big-box or hardware store and follow the steps on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst-case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit boards, or corroded and bent battery contact points. 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 as well as assistance to program it for your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
Car key fobs are a handy option that lets you unlock your car doors and then start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or appear to work intermittently. In some cases, the issue can be solved by replacing the battery. In other circumstances, it could require a more complex repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it no longer recognizes your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for costly key fob repair.
When the key fob is no longer sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions on 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 getting a strong enough signal from the car. This can be due to weak batteries in the car or interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. You can test the fob to determine whether this is the problem by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it may be because the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is been damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also hinder a fob from sending out a strong signal. This can happen if your key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle or it's a software issue.
If you are unable to fix the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should buy an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some are delivered to your residence.