Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're kept and how often they are knocked around, their buttons may become stuck or broken.
The majority of key fob issues are easy to fix. However, some issues are more serious and require expert assistance. This is when a locksmith can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become pretty intelligent however, it doesn't mean they can't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. It's not a solution because there could be a bad connection at one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they often include a spare key mechanical inside the fob in case of such an emergency. To gain access to this, find the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this button, you'll be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key that you can use to unlock your car.
You'll also need to be close to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when the battery dies. This limits its range.
It is relatively easy to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which is similar to a small silver coin) and follow the directions in the user's manual to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the original one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and start functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.
You can access key fobs by locating the latch, screw, or switch at the back, and then tearing the fob off. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to damage it! You can also take the fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable making it your own. Because it's a standard procedure, most auto shops will replace the battery on a fob for a nominal fee. Some dealers may even offer it for free dependent on the model and make of your vehicle.
repair car remote control key not working
The first thing to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is replace the batteries. This is the fastest fix and is the most likely way to fix the issue. If your fob is still not working after a change of battery, it could be due damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
Your car key fob can be damaged for various reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded or damaged board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the car's receiver which can then stop your car's doors and/or ignition from unlocking or even starting. It is possible that you will need to have a professional replace the fob if it's damaged.
The buttons on your fob may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and may 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 generally best to take the fob to a professional assessed for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you are using is compatible with your fob. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or at most hardware stores. You must always consult the owner's manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what type of battery it needs. A battery that is not the perfect match may have problems transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.
In rare instances, it could be that the issue isn't with your key fob but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door using the physical key and starting the car using the inductive backup (if it is available). If the physical key you have not open or start your car, have a mechanic inspect the receiver and electronic components to make sure they're functioning properly.
Fob Damaged
A key fob is made up of numerous components that function together and a single malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob doesn't work, it's important that you check for obvious causes like cracks in the casing or a damaged part. It's also crucial to examine other areas of the vehicle, such as the horn and lights to see whether those are working normally.
It is better to replace the key fob if it's damaged, rather than try to repair it. It might be necessary to reprogram the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob can wear out. This is especially true if you drop the fob or leave it in a hot climate.
In time the internal wiring of the key fob may get worn out. This can result in a button that doesn't work when it is pressed, or is functional when it is pressed extremely hard. It could also result in the car not opening or locking when the fob is used.
Most key fobs come with the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This is a great way to bring a fob back to functioning properly, and it's a good idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A bad battery is the main reason why the key fob will not turn on or work. Most mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you're comfortable with the installation then you can buy an additional one from an online store or hardware store and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob has internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards, or corroded and bent contact points on the battery. If any of these is the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation on a replacement as well as assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to be working intermittently. In some instances the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases it could require an intricate repair. The first step is to identify why the fob doesn't work correctly.
The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your car is broken. You may be able to reset the connection without needing repair of your key fob.
If the key fob not sending a strong signal, other problems can occur. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or if the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your vehicle. You can do this by following the directions included with the key fob. It's also recommended to carry a spare key with you in case you need to utilize it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
It's possible that the fob isn't getting the signal sufficiently strong from the car. This can be due to an insufficient battery in the car, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. With a remote tester, you can test the fob to see if it is the problem. If the tester doesn't illuminate when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
Another reason why the fob not transmitting an adequate signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it from doing so. This can happen if your fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or it's a software issue.
If you aren't able to solve the issue or it's not worth the effort of trying to repair the fob, then you should consider buying a new one. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some can be delivered directly to your home.