10 Key Fob Repair Tricks All Experts Recommend

Car Key Fob Repair Service

If your car's key fob stops working it could put you in a tough spot. It's expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.

But before you go to the dealer to have one re-evaluated there are a variety of places that will save you money.

Dead Battery

One of the most common problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. This can be a surprise particularly if it occurs when you're leaving for work or attending a social gathering. There may be a backup plan, like an additional key or a number for roadside help however, you will require a fix or replacement for the fob. The good news is that the majority of car key fob battery issues can be easily fixed with the right tools.

A lot of modern cars have an emergency backup system to protect the possibility that a fob's batteries may fail. If you hold a dead fob in the ignition, you are able to typically start the car. If you own a push-to-start vehicle, this will also unlock the doors. The owner's manual of your car will contain detailed instructions on where to put the fob of the key to start it.

Other reasons why keys not responding to press buttons or turning on include the button that isn't being completely pressed or is a battery with a low capacity, or a remote that requires programming. In some cases, cleaning your key fob might be enough to get it functioning again. Since key fob buttons are frequently repeatedly pressed the dirt may accumulate and stop them from pressing down completely.

A quick method to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to use the end of a paper clip. This is a safe method to open the case and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any other tools you might need to open the key fob's case in your possession. This way, you'll be prepared for any issue with your key fob so that it won't disrupt your day and cause you to need to call for roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid getting caught off guard in the event of problems with your key fob.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob send signals to the circuit board on the remote when they are pressed. If the buttons wear out, signals might not be sent. The device may stop working. This could occur over time, or could be the result of another issue with the fob or car. If the button has worn out it is possible to replace it or repair it.

Key fobs are often subjected to a lot abuse. Every day, they are dropped, banged, and exposed both to heat and cold. They're also pretty delicate and easily damaged. The inside of the fob has components like circuit boards and battery contacts, which can be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.

Most problems can be resolved by changing the battery in your fob, however there are some that require more. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the fob case and determine if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. Most key fobs use 3V button cells, which are available in almost every store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just one drop of water. This could be a concern if you go swimming with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This can damage the chip, preventing the key fob from functioning.

If you're dealing with a button issue, your best option is to call an expert locksmith. They can fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical failures like a broken horn or lights that won't work.

Automobiles are costly, so it is essential to keep up to date with the latest technology and equipment that help them run. When you don't, your vehicle won't function as it should and it will be difficult to get to where you need to be. Incorrect technology and equipment could also be a safety issue and can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If your fob isn't working when you attempt to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start the car, the fob must be able to communicate with central system of your vehicle. This communication is done via a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) which then unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob can send the signal up to 50 feet away. However, should the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not function.

Luckily, these are easy solutions. The process of replacing the battery is usually straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out which replacement batteries are required and then visiting an auto parts retailer or online store to find the right ones. Some key fobs are difficult to open in order to get access to the batteries however, it's important to be cautious to ensure that you don't damage any of the components inside.

The next step is to test the key fob again. If the key fob still doesn't work the key made of metal inside the fob could be damaged or the key may have been changed in programming. Modern keys must be programmed to work with specific vehicles, and a certain error codes can cause a malfunction in the programming of the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who can program the automotive key repair again to the vehicle.

Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could have failed because the key fob had been exposed to heat excessively, or other problems. Sometimes this is the result of work that was done to your vehicle, which left exposed wires, which could cause other malfunctions such as a broken horn or malfunctioning key fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if needed. In the absence of a functioning key car repair could be stressful and even dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs can be extremely convenient, but they may also cause problems that require professional assistance. Many of the issues that may affect a mobile car key repair keyfob are easy and inexpensive to repair. Here are a few of the most frequent problems and their possible solutions:

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life-span than standard remotes. fob key repair near me batteries need to be replaced every three or four years, and they can cease working if they become too old. Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix - just purchase a replacement battery and then install it.

Damaged receiver

To start and open your vehicle the transmitter inside your keyfob has to receive a signal from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't be able to pass through and will remain inaccessible. This is a simple issue to determine however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if damaged.

Not programmed

Certain modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob in order to start. This chip communicates with the car using a unique code that only the manufacturer knows. In the majority of cases, you have to go to the dealer to purchase the replacement fob properly programmed for your vehicle. You can find aftermarket fobs that are compatible with a variety of vehicles.

Not working

If your car key fob will not work after you have replaced the battery and the buttons, it could be due to an electrical issue or another type of issue that requires professional repair. A professional locksmith can quickly solve the issue by looking for the problem. This service is usually cheaper than going to a dealer. The cost of a new fob will depend on your car model and the local locksmith. You can get an estimate of the cost by checking with some local businesses prior to scheduling a job.