Key fobs are exposed to lots of abuse. Based on the way they're stored and how often they are jostled, their buttons can get stuck or damaged.
Luckily, most issues with key fobs are simple to solve. But some are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when locksmiths come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart However, that doesn't mean that they don't occasionally get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. It's not a solution because there could be an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of the possibility of a issue, and often install an extra mechanical key in the fob to be used in an emergency. It is accessible by pressing the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). When you press this button, you'll be able to open the fob to reveal a key that you can use to open the car.
You'll also need to be close to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob's transmitter loses power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively inexpensive. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Then, replace the new battery in the same direction that the previous one was placed (the positive side should be facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by finding the latch, screw, or switch on the back and then prying the fob apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to connect to your vehicle! If you're not confident doing this on your own, you can also send your key fob to a professional. Because it's a standard procedure the majority of auto shops will swap the battery inside a fob for a nominal fee. Some dealers might even do it for no cost dependent on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Working
Replace the batteries if the key fob doesn't work. This is the most straightforward solution and can fix the issue. If your device is not working after a change of battery, it could be due damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The key fob in your car can be damaged due to various reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a damaged or corroded board. These issues could stop your key from sending the signal to your receiver in your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from locking. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely you will need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky', and they can start to fail to register your pressing accurately. Try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue however, it's recommended to send the fob to have it professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
Check that the battery you're 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 your fob for further details. If the battery isn't the right fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals and providing enough power to internal components.
In the rarest of cases it could be that the issue isn't 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 available). If your physical key does not allow you to start your car, make sure a mechanic inspect the electronic components and the receiver to ensure they are working properly.
Fob Damaged
A key fob is made up of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to check for obvious causes like a cracked casing or a broken component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure that they are working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, it's best to obtain a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of trying to repair it. It could be necessary to reset the fob for the car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts to transmit signals to the circuit board of the key fob however, they will wear down over time. car key fob repairs near me is especially true if you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
Over time the internal wiring inside the key fob could become worn down. This could result in the button not functioning when it's pressed or only working when pressed extremely hard. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able start or unlock once the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs have a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned safely by using soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original purpose. It's also a good idea for you to do it regularly to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.
A faulty battery is typically the reason the key fob will not turn on or work. Many mechanics and car dealers can change the batteries quickly however, if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a new battery from a hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If any of these is the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for suggestions for a replacement and assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and open the doors of your car. If they stop working, or fail to function, they can be a hassle. In some instances, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. However, in other circumstances, it could require a more complex repair. The first step is determining the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it has stopped recognizing your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and the car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for expensive key fob repair.
Other issues can occur when the key fob no longer sends an energizing signal. This could happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync your key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided with the key fob. You should also carry a spare car key in case your primary key is lost.
The fob might not receive a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due a weak battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and see if it is the cause of the issue. If the tester doesn't light up when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
The immobilizer in your car could hinder a fob from sending a clear signal. This can occur in the event that your key fob isn't been properly programmed or you have a software issue.
If you aren't able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, then you should think about buying a new one. There are low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some can even be delivered to your doorstep.
