Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how they are thrown around.

Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. However, some issues are more serious and require expert assistance. This is where locksmiths can come in handy.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key fobs have gotten pretty intelligent however, it doesn't mean they can't occasionally get stuck in 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 one of the terminals on the battery connector.

Car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually include a spare key mechanical inside the fob in case of such an emergency. You can access it by pressing the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user's manual to find out more). Pressing this can allow you to unlock the fob, and then gain access to an actual key that you can use to unlock your vehicle.

You will also need to be closer to your car to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery dies which limits the range of operation.

It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Just be sure to buy the button cell battery (which looks like tiny silver coins) to replace your fob, and follow the user's manual or video instructions on how to remove the old battery. After that, replace the new battery in the same way that the old one was placed (the positive side should face upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock function, and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.

You can access key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch in the back and then prying the fob in two. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll need it to connect to your car! You could also take the key fob to an expert if you are not comfortable doing it yourself. Since it's a common service the majority of auto shops will change the battery on a fob for a nominal cost. Some dealers may even do it for free, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Working

Replace the batteries if your key fob doesn't work. This is the fastest fix and will likely resolve the issue. If your device is 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's key fob for many reasons, such as physical trauma, water exposure, or a damaged circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver in your car, which will then prevent your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll require an expert to repair the part or the entire device.

The buttons on your device could have worn out with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and make the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They can also stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the issue however, it's recommended to send the fob to a professional examined for more comprehensive repairs.

Make sure that the battery you're using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or in most hardware stores. You should always consult your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which type of battery it needs. If the battery is not the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and providing sufficient power to internal components.

In rare instances the issue could be with the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door using a physical key and then start the car with the inductive backup (if available). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle check with a mechanic the receiver and electronic components of your vehicle to determine whether they're working properly.

Damaged Fob

A key fob is comprised of many parts and one issue can cause other parts 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 broken internal component. Examine the horn, lights and other components of the vehicle to ensure that they are functioning properly.

It is better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than try to repair it. It might be necessary to reset the fob for the car. This is not something you can do at home and requires special equipment.

The buttons on a key fob use contacts to transmit signals to the key fob's circuit board however, these contacts will wear down over time. This is most common when the fob gets dropped or left in hot weather.

In time the internal wiring inside the key fob may become worn down. This can result in a button that doesn't work when pressed, or only can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It can also lead to the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.

Most fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be opened up and cleaned using soap and water. This is a great way to bring a fob back to proper function and it's a good idea to do it often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.

A faulty battery is typically the reason for a key fob to not work or turn on. The majority of car dealers and mechanics can replace the battery in a short time. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase an additional one from a big-box store or hardware store and follow the steps on YouTube or in your owner's guide.

The worst-case scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit boards, or corroded and bent battery contact points. If you find any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or dealer to get a replacement key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob isn't programming.

Car key fobs are a convenient convenience that allows you to unlock your car's doors and then start the engine. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be a hassle. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it may require an intricate repair. The first step is determining why the fob doesn't work properly.

The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This can happen when the connection between your remote and your car is damaged. It is possible to reset this connection without having to call a key fob repair service.

If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other problems could be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, you should try to resync the key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions included with the key fob. It is also recommended to have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key is lost.

It's also possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This could be due to a weak battery in the car, interference from wireless devices, or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and determine if it's the issue. If the tester doesn't light up when one of the buttons is press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob is damaged.

Another reason that the fob not transmitting the right signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is preventing it from sending a strong signal. This could happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or it's a software issue.

If you're not able to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle car keys repairs near me of repairing the fob, then you should look into buying a replacement. You can find low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some can be delivered directly to your door.