10 Key Fob Repair Tricks Experts Recommend

Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob could appear to be an incidental item, if it stops working properly you could end up in a bind. It can be expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the best option.

You can save money by going to other places before you go to the dealer.

Dead Battery

A dead battery on a key fob is one of the most common issues with key fobs. It can catch people off guard, especially when it happens as you are leaving for work or heading to a social event. While you may have a backup plan in place like a spare key or a phone number for assistance on the road it is likely that you will need to get the fob repaired or replaced. The positive side is that the majority of car key fob battery issues can be easily fixed with the right information.

A majority of modern vehicles have a backup system that accounts for the possibility of the fob battery failing. Usually, if you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button you'll be able to start the car. If you have a push-to start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will include specific information on where to put the key fob to start it.

Other causes of keys that don't respond or turn on to the button presses include the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote control that needs to be reprogrammed. In some instances, a simple cleaning may be all that is needed to make your key fob work again. Since key fob buttons are frequently pressed over and over again dirt can build up and prevent them from pressing down all the way.

An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch can be to make use of the end of a paper clip. You can use this to open the case safely and remove the battery. You should also keep an extra battery handy along with any tool you'll need to open up the key fob case. This way, you can be prepared in case of an issue with your key fob to ensure that it doesn't interrupt your day and cause you to have to call for roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep a spare key in your pocket so that you aren't surprised by a malfunctioning key fob.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob send signals to the circuit board on the remote when they are press. If the buttons wear out, signals might not be sent and your device will stop functioning. This can happen over time or may be due to an issue with your car or fob. If the button is worn out, a professional can replace or repair it.

Key fobs are usually subjected to a lot of abuse. They're dropped, banged around, and exposed to cold and hot on a regular basis. They're also very fragile and could easily be broken. The inside of the fob is filled with parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that could be destroyed if abused enough.

Most problems can be resolved by replacing the battery in the fob, however there are certain issues that require more. The battery can be tested by opening the case of the key fob with the help of a screwdriver to determine whether it's dirty or requires replacing. The most commonly used batteries in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries that can be purchased at almost any store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's the smallest amount of water. This can be a problem when you accidentally wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This can harm the transponder chip and cause the key fob to cease working.

If you're dealing with a problem with a button the best choice is to call an expert locksmith. They can repair or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical failures like the horn that is broken or lights that aren't turning on.

It is essential to keep up-to-date with the latest technologies and equipment for your car. Cars can be expensive. If you don't, the vehicle won't function as it should and will be harder to get to where you need to be. It's also a major safety issue to have faulty equipment and technology since it could cause more serious mechanical problems down the road.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you've been trying to start your car but the fob isn't working it could be an indication that the battery terminals are damaged. The fob needs to be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock and start it. This communication is accomplished through a tiny transmitter that is located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent through the fob to the internal key (if it exists) which opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to send this signal up to 50 feet, but the transmission may not work in the event that the battery terminals are damaged.

These are straightforward fixes. It is generally easy to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, determine what type of batteries you require, and then head to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct one. It can be difficult to open key fobs to access the batteries. Be careful not to scratch any item.

Then, try the key repair shop fob once more. If it still doesn't work it could be because the key made of metal inside the fob has been damaged or the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys have to be programmed to function with a particular vehicle and certain error codes could affect the programming of the key fob. This can be fixed by a professional who will reprogram the key to the car key repair service.

Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, especially if it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could have failed because the key fob was exposed to extreme heat, or other problems. Sometimes, this is because of having work done on your vehicle, which exposed wires, which could cause other issues, such as a damaged horn or malfunctioning key fob. Check your key fob and replace it or repair it if needed. Not having a working key could be stressful and even dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs can be extremely convenient, but they may also cause problems that require professional repair. A lot of the issues that could be a problem for a car keyfob are simple and affordable to fix. Here are some of the most common problems and solutions for them:

A dead battery

Most basic remotes can last a long time before needing replacement batteries, however the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or four years, and they can easily stop working when they are too old. Luckily it is a simple solution - just purchase a new replacement battery and install it.

A damaged receiver

The transmitter in your key fob needs to receive a signal from the receiver in your vehicle to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't be able to pass through and will remain inaccessible. This is an easy problem to identify however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is damaged.

Not programmed

Some modern cars need a special chip in the key fob to start. The chip communicates to the car key fob repair near me using a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, you need to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob that is correct for your car. However, you can sometimes locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that work with a variety of automobiles.

Not working

If you've tried to replace the battery and buttons, but your car key fob repair near me key fob still does not work it could be due to an electrical issue or other issue that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith will be able to solve the issue by looking for the issue. This will typically be cheaper than a trip the dealership. The cost of a new fob will depend on the model of your vehicle and the local locksmith. Contact a few locksmiths in your area to know the price before committing to the job.