Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can get stuck or break, depending on the way they are stored and how they are tossed around.

Luckily, most key fob issues are relatively simple to fix. But some are more serious and require expert assistance. Locksmiths can be a huge help in these instances.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key repairs near me fobs are pretty intelligent however, that doesn't mean they don't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery when this occurs. However, that's not always the solution to the issue, since you may also have an issue with one of the battery connector terminals.

Automobile manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often put a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of the case of an emergency. To access this, find the small release button or latch on the back of the fob (check the user manual for details). Pressing this can allow you to unlock the fob and gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.

Another indication that your fob's batteries are 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 energy when its battery is depleted. This reduces its range.

It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which resembles a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same direction that the previous one was placed (the positive side should face upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it. Make sure the new battery is placed correctly.

Certain key fobs may be difficult to open but you should be able to do it by placing the latch, switch or screw on the back of the fob, and then prying it open. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so take care not to harm it! You can also take your fob to a professional in case you're not comfortable making the change yourself. Most auto shops will swap a fob's battery at a minimal cost because it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers might even offer to perform the swap for free, based on the model and brand of your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Working

The first thing to do when your key fob isn't working is replace the batteries. This is the most straightforward solution and can fix the issue. If your fob is still not working after a change of battery, it may be due to damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.

Damage can occur to your car key fob for many reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water or a corroded circuit board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the car's receiver, which then prevents your car's doors and/or ignition from opening or turning on. You may need to have a professional replace your fob if it is damaged.

The buttons on your device could have become worn out over time with repeated use. Rubber can wear out and make the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They also may stop registering your press. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue, but it's usually best to take the fob to a professional assessed for more extensive repairs.

It is important to ensure that the battery you're using is a precise match for your fob. You can find a list online or in many hardware stores. Refer to the owner's guide or the engraving on your fob for more information. If the battery isn't the correct fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals and supplying enough power to internal components.

In rare cases it could be a problem with the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using an actual key to open the door, and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if available). If your key's physical counterpart does not allow you to start your car, you should have an expert check the receiver and electronic components to ensure that they're functioning properly.

Damaged Fob

A key fob is comprised of many components, and one malfunction can cause other components to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious like a damaged or cracked case, or a damaged internal component. It's also important to check other components of the vehicle such as the lights and horn to determine 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 trying to fix it. The fob may need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle and this can't usually be done at home, and requires specialized equipment for doing this.

Over time the contacts on buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is especially true if you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.

The internal wiring of a key fob could also wear out over time. This can result in the button not working when pressed, or only can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It can also lead to the car keys repairs not opening or locking when the fob is activated.

The majority of key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original purpose. It's an excellent idea for you to do it frequently to avoid dirt damaging the inside.

A bad battery is usually the reason the key fob will not turn on or work. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery in a short time. If you're confident in installing the battery yourself then you can buy a new one at a big-box store or hardware store and follow the instructions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.

The most likely scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't completely connected to the circuit boards, or corroded and bent battery contact points. If you observe any of these issues you should contact an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a replacement key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Programming

Car key fobs are a convenient option that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some cases, the issue is solved by replacing the battery. In other circumstances, it could require a more complex repair. The first step is determining why the fob doesn't work correctly.

One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and car is broken. You can sometimes reset the connection without having to call a key fob repair service.

Other issues can occur when the key fob no longer sends an energizing signal. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In any case, try to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions provided by the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an extra key, so that you can utilize it in the event that the primary key isn't working.

The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This can be caused by weak car batteries or interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see whether this is the cause by using an external tester. If the tester does not light up when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob is broken.

A car's immobilizer could also hinder the fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly, or if there is a software problem.

If you're not able to troubleshoot the problem or Key Fob Repair Service it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, then consider buying a new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options and some are delivered directly to your home.