Key fobs can be damaged. Based on the way they're stored and how often they're jostled, their buttons can become stuck or broken.
Most key fob issues are simple to fix. But some are more serious and will require professional help. This is where locksmiths can come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart, but that does not mean that they don't occasionally become stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. This won't fix the issue because there could be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car makers are aware of the potential problem, and they often add a second mechanical key inside the fob to use in such an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for details). Pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a key that you can use to unlock your car.
You will also need to be close to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is because the fob's transmitter loses strength as its battery ages which limits the range of operation.
Replacing the battery is straightforward and fairly inexpensive. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which appears to be like a tiny silver coin) to replace your fob, and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to take out the old one. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was placed (the positive side should be facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to ensure that the new battery was placed correctly.
Certain key fobs may be difficult to open but you should be able to open them by finding the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and then tearing it apart. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to work with your vehicle! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own it's also possible to take your key fob to an expert. Since it's a common service, most auto shops will change the battery on a fob for a nominal fee. Some dealers may even offer it for free, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the fastest fix and will most likely fix the problem. If your fob still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be due to damage.
Your car key fob can be damaged due to various reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded board. These issues can prevent your key from sending a signal to the vehicle's receiver which can then stop your car's doors or ignition from locking or even starting. You may have to hire a professional to replace your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device might have worn out due to repeated use. car remote key repair near me can wear out making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They may also cease to register your presses. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is generally recommended to examine the fob by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
Double check that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. A battery that is not an ideal match could have issues transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.
In very rare cases it could be the case that the issue isn't with your key fob, but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using an actual key to open the door, and then trying to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system (if available). If your key isn't working to open or start your car then a mechanic should inspect the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine whether they're working properly.
Fobs that are damaged
A key fob is composed of many parts and one issue can cause other components to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to look for obvious causes such as a cracked casing or a damaged component. Check the horn, light and other parts of the car to ensure they're functioning properly.
It is better to replace the key fob if it's damaged, rather than attempt to repair it. It might be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board, but these can wear down over time. This is particularly true if the fob gets dropped or left in hot weather.
In time the internal wiring of a key fob can also get worn out. It could result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also result in the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
The majority of fobs have a plastic cover which can be loosened and safely cleaned with water and soap. This is often able to help restore a key fob's functioning properly and it's a great practice to clean it regularly to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A bad battery is the most common reason that the key fob will not turn on or work. The majority of car dealers and mechanics are able to replace the battery quickly. If you are comfortable with the installation and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase a new one at an online store or a hardware store, and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks in the case, teeny electronic components not completely attached to the circuit board, or corroded or bent battery contact points. If you observe any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a replacement key fob and assistance in programming it to 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 function intermittently. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations, it could involve a more complicated repair. The first step is to figure out the reason for the fob not functioning correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob malfunctioning is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for costly key fob repair.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to reconnect your key to your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions that came with the key fob. You should also have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key fails.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting an adequate signal from the car. This could be caused by a weak car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna problem. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and check if it's the cause of the issue. If the tester does not light up when any of the buttons are press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob could be damaged.
Another reason why the fob not sending an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system is blocking it from sending a strong signal. This could happen in the event that your key fob isn't been properly programmed or you have a software issue.
If you're not able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the effort of repairing the fob, 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 door.
