Three Common Reasons Your Key Fob Repair Service Isn't Working (And How To Fix It)
Three Common Reasons Your Key Fob Repair Service Isn't Working (And How To Fix It)
Blog Article
Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're kept and how often they get jostled, their buttons can become stuck or broken.
Most key fob issues are easy to fix. However, some issues are more serious and require assistance from a professional. Locksmiths can be a huge help in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent, but that does not mean they do not sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. But that doesn't always solve the issue, as there could be a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often install a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of this kind of emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user's manual for more details). By pressing this button, you can open the fob to reveal a physical key you can use to open the car.
It is also necessary to be close to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob loses power when its battery dies. This reduces its range.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and fairly inexpensive. You will need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user guide to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the old one (the positive side facing up toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to be certain the new battery was placed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be a little tricky to open but you should be able to do it by finding the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and prying it apart. Be careful not to break the fob because you'll need it to work with your car! If you're not comfortable making this change yourself it's also possible to bring your fob to an expert. Since it's a routine service that most auto shops will replace the battery inside the fob for a small charge. Some dealers may even do it for free depending on the model and brand of your car.
Fob not working
The first thing you need to do when your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest solution and will fix the problem. If your fob still does not work after changing the battery, it could be caused by damage.
The key fob in your car can be damaged for many reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded or damaged board. These issues could stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from locking. You may have to hire a professional to replace your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your fob could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber can wear away making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They can also cease to register your presses. You can try wiping down the buttons and adjusting them to see if this resolves the issue However, it's generally recommended to send the fob to a professional examined for more comprehensive repairs.
It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a precise match for the fob you're using. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or at most hardware stores, and you must always consult the owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what kind of battery it requires. A battery that is not the perfect match may be unable to transmit powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the internal components of the fob.
In rare instances, it could be that the problem is not with your key fob, but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the door with an actual key and start the car with the inductive backup (if there is). If your key isn't working to open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the electronic components and receiver of your car to see if they are functioning correctly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob has numerous components that are interconnected and a single failure could cause others to fail. If a key fob ceases to function it's crucial to check for obvious causes like cracked casings or a damaged part. It's also important to check other areas of the vehicle such as the horn and lights to see whether they're functioning normally.
If the key fob is damaged, it's recommended to find a replacement at your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. It may be necessary to reprogramme the fob to connect to your car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob may wear out. This is more likely when you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob may be worn out over time. It could result in buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or works when pressed very strongly. This can also result in the vehicle not being able to start or unlock once the fob has been used.
Most key fobs come with the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can often help restore a key fob's functioning properly, and it's a good idea to do it often to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A bad battery is the primary reason that a key fob won't turn on or work. Most mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. repair car key fob If you're confident in installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase an additional one from an online store or hardware store and follow the steps on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
The most likely scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, such as cracks, tiny electronic components not fully attached to the circuit boards or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If any of these are the scenario, it's a great idea to speak with an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation for a replacement and assistance getting it programmed to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
Car key fobs are a convenient feature that lets you unlock your car's doors and start the engine. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be a hassle. In some cases the problem can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other circumstances, it could require a more complex repair. The first step is to identify the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.
The most common reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your car is cut off. It is possible to reset this connection without the need for repair of your key fob.
When the key fob is not sending a strong signal, other issues could be experienced. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to reconnect the key to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions that came by the key fob. Also, you should have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key fails.
The fob might not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This can be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob to check if it's the issue. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also prevent a fob from sending out a strong signal. This can happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or it's an issue with the software.
If you're unable to repair the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you should purchase an entirely new one. There are low-cost options from numerous online retailers, and some of these can be delivered directly to your door.