Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Depending on how they're kept and how often they get moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Luckily, car remote key repair near me are relatively simple to fix. However, some issues are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when a locksmith can come in handy.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty smart, but that does not mean that they don't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. This doesn't solve the problem because it could be due to an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually put a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just such an emergency. It is accessible by finding the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user manual to find out more). Pressing this can allow you to open the fob and access a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.
You'll also need to be nearer to your vehicle to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the transmitter of your fob loses its strength as its battery ages and limits its range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which appears to be like a tiny silver coin) for your fob and follow the user's guide or video on how to remove the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same orientation that the old one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start and lock functions as well as unlock/lock functions to make sure that the new battery was placed correctly.
You can access key fobs by finding the latch, screw or switch on the back and then prying the fob off. Be careful not to break the fob, since you'll require it to operate your vehicle! If you're not comfortable doing this yourself it's also possible to take your fob to a professional. Many auto shops will swap the battery of a fob at a minimal cost, since it's such an everyday repair service. Some dealers may even be willing to do it for free depending on the model and year of the car.
Fob Is Not Working
Replace the batteries in your key fob if it does not work. This is the most efficient solution and will likely resolve the issue. If your device is not working after a battery change it could be due damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.
Damage can happen to your car's key fob due to a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water or a damaged circuit board. These issues may prevent your key from sending a signal to the vehicle's receiver, which then prevents the doors of your car and/or ignition from unlocking or even starting. If your fob is damaged it's likely that you'll require an expert to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device may have worn-out over time due to repeated use. The rubber can wear away and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky', and they can begin to fail to register your press accurately. Try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the problem however, it's best to take the fob to a professional evaluated for more thorough repairs.
It is important to ensure that the new battery you're using is a perfect match to your fob. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on your fob for more information. A battery that isn't an ideal match could have problems transmitting powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the fob's internal components.
In rare cases it could be a problem related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if there is). If your physical key does not work or open your car, you should have a mechanic check the receiver and electronic components to ensure that they're working correctly.
Fob Damaged
A key fob has many components that work together, and one failure can cause others to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work it is important to check for obvious causes like cracked casings or a broken component. Check the horn, light and other components of the vehicle to ensure that they are working properly.
It is better to replace the key fob if it's damaged, rather than attempt to repair it. The fob could need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle this is something that cannot be done at home, and it requires special equipment to do so.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts to transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob, but these can wear down over time. This is most common when the fob is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
In time the internal wiring of the key fob could wear down. This could lead to the button not functioning when it's being pressed or only working when it's pressed very hard. It could also cause the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
Most fobs have a plastic cover that can be opened and cleaned using soap and water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's recommended to clean it regularly to avoid dirt destroying the inside.
A bad battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or function. Most car dealers and mechanics can replace the batteries quickly but if you're at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a new battery at the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of these is the case, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice for a replacement and assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob Isn't Programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to be working intermittently. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances it may require a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your car is broken. It is possible to reset this connection without the need for repair of your key fob.
Other issues could arise when the key fob no longer sends a clear signal. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In any case, try to reconnect the key to your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions on the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep an extra key to make use of it in the event that your primary key isn't working.
It's also possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This could be due to a weak car battery 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 doesn't light up when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob is damaged.
Another reason why the fob not sending an adequate signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be hindering it. This could happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle or in the event of a software issue.
If you're unable to troubleshoot the problem or it's not worth the hassle of repairing the fob, then you should consider buying a new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options and some can be delivered to your residence.
