How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Although we use them numerous times keys aren't indestructible. In fact, they are able to break down in a variety of ways.

While the most common issue is an unresponsive battery, other issues can be much more grave. Luckily, most of these issues can be solved by a simple DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is the main reason for the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you need it.

The LED light will typically cease to blink when the battery in the car key fob is running low. It's also possible that your key fob will no longer work from the same distance as it did in the past. In this case the key fob could need to be reprogrammed or replaced completely.

It is simple to replace the car keyfob battery. First, you need to determine the type of battery is used. The type of battery should be embossed in the side of your key lock repair near me fob. Google can help you if you're not sure. Unlock the key fob along the seam once you've identified the type of battery. You'll need a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to break the two halves. Then, you can remove the battery that was removed and replace it with the new one in its place. Place the new battery in such a way that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not be aware their fob is dead until they try to lock key repair near me or unlock their vehicle and the buttons do not respond. In some cases, this can be solved by reprogramming the fob, but that can be costly and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to find out whether they can jumpstart your car and get it back on the road.

If you've tried both of these solutions and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time to contact a professional. A qualified technician will be able to determine whether your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or the fob simply requires a replacement battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your fob's keys. In the end, though sometimes, a brand new fob is the best solution.

Damaged Circuit Board

The key fob isn't impervious to destruction, but it can withstand a lot of physical harm. The battery, circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair amount of wear and tear with time, so it's important to be aware and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob working efficiently.

The easiest thing to check is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't dead. Replace the battery to determine if it resolves your issue. If this does not work, you may need to open the fob and clean the contact surfaces. It isn't easy to open certain key fobs due to the fact that they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You can damage the fob by trying to break it. You can buy a tool for opening your key fob. But, you must always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.

Another issue that is common is a damaged or corrupted circuit board inside the key fob. This can be caused by various factors like dirt or moisture that gets into the battery compartment software problems or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob has stopped working completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed by locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.

Radio interference is another possible cause. This can occur when you have other wireless devices around that transmit at the same frequency, like radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation you need to contact the other device manufacturer to make sure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.

It's also possible that your key fob may have an unreliable switch or electrical component that needs to be replaced. This is a harder fix, but you can find guides online that explain how to do it yourself. It's important to be careful when doing this, as the circuit boards in your key fob are tiny and easily break if they are handled roughly. If you decide to do this yourself, make sure to use a good quality SMT switch and then solder it into place properly.

Out Buttons Out Buttons

Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They're susceptible to being dropped, and they often are frequently jostled around in your purse or pocket. The jolting can cause buttons to wear out or get stuck. In this case an easy adjustment could be all that's needed to restore the button's functionality.

The majority of modern key fobs have sensors on them that can detect if they've been pressed. They're designed to do this so that they can lower the risk of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when you press them, they're worn out and should be replaced.

Key fobs also have an internal circuit board which transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car key repairs near me, as well as instructions to start the engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged, then the key fob you have may not unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. This kind of damage is typically caused by blunt force or water.

You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are wearing down when you press them harder than normal to get them to function. Your fob could be unable to send an alert to your car or have a smaller range.

Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to use your key fob for your vehicle. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob itself is damaged or the ignition cylinder has worn out.

Luckily, most car key fob issues aren't serious or complicated. The best way to ensure you don't get caught off guard by an issue with your key fob is to have a spare in your possession at all times. You won't be left stranded due to a malfunctioning or lost key. If you have lost your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that has occurred on the key fob.

Broken Case

A key fob's case is more than just a place to store the battery and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that does all the electrical magic every time you press the key fob button. This board transmits the signal from your keyfob to your car.

If this board is damaged or dead, your key fob won't be able to operate. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead will just need to be reprogrammed which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.

Another reason your key fob may not be functioning is that the batteries are dying. The battery can be replaced at your home. The positive side is that you can locate the replacement battery online or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.

Depending on the type of key fob you have, there are a variety of ways to open it and gain access to the inside. A quick internet search should show you which type of door key repair near me fob yours is and what kind of battery it requires. From there, you can purchase a replacement and easily pop the old one out, and then the new one in.

If you are repairing a damaged key fob, the primary goal is not to harm the circuit or buttons further. Trying to pry apart the fob using a hard edge like a screwdriver can cause damage to the case or scratch the plastic. A replacement case isn't much and you can purchase the entire fob including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.

If your key fob does not work, you should check if you've damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this isn't the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and inexpensively by an expert. If not, it might be time to replace the fob. Make sure you check for a warranty on any used or replacement fobs that you purchase online.