9 Things Your Parents Teach You About Key Fob Repair Service
Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or Key Fob Repair Service break based on the way they are stored and how much they are thrown around.
Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fob repairs fobs are simple to solve. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious and require professional assistance. A locksmith can be a huge help in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become quite intelligent however it doesn't mean they can't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's time to replace the battery. However, that's not always the solution to the issue, as there could be a bad connection on one of the battery connector terminals.
The car makers are aware of the potential problem, and they often include a mechanical key in the fob for use in the event of an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for details). By pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key you can use to unlock the car.
Another indication that your fob's battery is dying is the fact that you have to be a lot closer to your car in order to unlock and open it than you did before. The transmitter of the fob's transmitter loses power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to take out the old battery. After that, replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was inserted (the positive side should face upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and start functions of the fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is installed correctly.
Some key fobs are difficult to open however, you should be able to do it by finding the latch, switch, or screw at the back of the fob, and then prying it open. Be careful not to break the fob since you'll require it to work with your vehicle! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself it's also possible to take your fob to a professional. Many auto shops will change a fob's battery for a small fee because it's a common repair service. Some dealers might even do it for free depending on the model and brand of the car.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it isn't working. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will solve the issue. If your fob still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
Damage can happen to your car's key fob due to a variety of reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water or a damaged circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the receiver inside your car, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from unlocking. You may need to have a professional replace the fob if it's damaged.
The buttons on your keychain may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They also may stop registering your press. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, but it is recommended to get the fob examined by a professional for more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores. You must always refer to your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. A battery that is not the perfect match may have issues transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In rare instances the issue could be in the vehicle's electronic parts or receiver. You can test this by using an actual key to open the door, and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if available). If your key isn't working to open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is made up of a variety of parts, and one malfunction can cause other components to fail. If a keyfob stops working it is important to look for obvious causes such as a cracked casing or a broken component. It's also essential to examine other areas of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether they're working as expected.
It is better to replace the key fob if it's damaged rather than try to repair it. The fob might require reprogramming to the vehicle, which is something that can't usually be done at home, and requires specialized equipment for doing this.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, these contacts will wear down over time. This is especially true when you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
The internal wiring of a key fob can also wear out over time. This can result in buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It could also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock once the fob is pressed.
The majority of key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned safely with soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's an excellent idea for you to do it often to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A faulty battery is typically the reason why a key fob will not turn on or function. Many mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a new battery at an hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The most likely scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board or bent or corroded battery contact points. If you notice any of these problems, you should consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a replacement key fob as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob isn't programming.
Car key fobs are an excellent feature that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some instances, the issue can be solved by replacing the battery. However, in other situations it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning properly.
One of the most frequent causes of a malfunctioning fob is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and car is damaged. It is possible to reset this connection without having to call a key fob repair service.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other issues could occur. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, attempt to reconnect the key to your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions that came by the key fob. Also, you should keep a spare car key in case the primary key is lost.
It's also possible that the fob doesn't receive the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This could be due to a weak battery in the car or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see whether this is the problem by using the remote tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when one of the buttons is press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob is damaged.
Another possible reason for a fob not sending the right signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it. This could happen when your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there's a software issue.
If you're unable to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, then you should consider buying a new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options and some can be delivered directly to your home.
