Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
It can be a stressful experience when your key fob fails. Luckily, most fob problems aren't serious or complicated and can be fixed at home or with an auto locksmith near you.
First, check the key fob to see if it has any physical damage or an inoperative battery. You can then reset the fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual.
Dead Key Fob Battery
With a key fob, you can open and start your vehicle without fumbling around with your keys. Some models even unlock doors, hatchbacks and trunks with the push of one button. A dead key fob is not as difficult to fix as it might appear. You can take your car to an auto repair shop or dealership for assistance. But did you know that you could fix your fob on your own?
The first thing you'll require is a new, clean CR2032 battery. They are available in a multipack at many hardware stores. Use a flathead screwdriver or a watch to pry the case open. There's typically an opening or notch to begin and after you've created the first gap, you'll be able to wedge your pry tool like you peeling an apple or orange to open the case more. It's best to be gentle; you don't want breaking the case of the fob, or the circuit board that is inside.
Once you've got your case open, place the battery you just purchased under the tabs highlighted by yellow arrows in this photo. Make sure it's over the two tabs pointed to by the green arrows. After the new battery is in place, close your key fob and test it. If key repair near me does not work, you may need to contact an expert for more thorough troubleshooting.
In rare cases, replacing a battery in a keyfob may result in a non-functional device. In this instance there's probably a problem with the vehicle or the fob. Keep a spare keyfob in your car to ensure you're ready in case the battery dies, or if another problem occurs.
You can also request an expert to provide other key fob repair procedures. They can check for damaged buttons or contacts, as well as other components. They can also do the reprogramming or synchronization process when your vehicle is experiencing trouble communicating with your keyfob.
Damaged Key Fob Battery
The majority of key fobs are powered by a small battery that powers the internal components. This includes the buttons that activate the chip and antenna for releasing a radio frequency. The battery also powers the plastic casing that protects these components. Your key fob won't function if the battery is dead. The solution is easy and cost-effective: replace the battery. There are many manufacturers that have instructions in their owner's manual on how to change the battery of the key fob. It may be a bit difficult, but it is not hard to do and you'll probably save money by doing it yourself rather than bringing the fob into an auto shop or dealership.
You could have a different problem if your key fob does not function after replacing the batteries. Check the key fob for indications of physical damage, for example cracks or scratches. You can also examine the circuit board by opening the case. If you're at ease, you can use a cotton ball dipped into alcohol to clean the contact points on the circuit board of the key fob. This will get rid of the corrosion without damaging your fob.
Key fobs should also be programmed to connect to the receiver of the vehicle. This is done so that only keys to the same car can unlock the vehicle and to stop key fobs that are not meant for that vehicle from opening it. If you have recently had your keyfob repaired or replaced or if it's been unused for a while, the transmitter and receive may have become disconnected.
You can test this by using a spare remote control that you own. This will tell you if the problem is with the key fob or the electrical system of your vehicle. A mechanic can help you fix the problem by reconnecting any wires that have been disconnected. You could also try connecting the key fob to an alternative receiver to try to determine if this solves the problem. If you're not able to do this, you may have to bring your key fob to an auto dealer or repair shop for more thorough repairs.
Damaged Key Fob Transmitter
It can be a major inconvenience when your car key fob fails to work. The majority of car key fobs can be repairable by following a few simple guidelines. First, look over the fob for physical damages, and make sure it's just dead. If a new battery does not solve the problem there could be a more serious issue.
It's not a surprise that key fobs for cars wear out over time. They're made of a variety of moving parts. A damaged fob transmitter can stop your vehicle from starting or from unlocking the doors. A damaged transmitter may also interfere with radio signals sent from your key fob to the receiver inside the car. If you suspect your key fob transmitter is damaged, take it to an expert mechanic in your area for inspection and repair.
One of the most frequent reasons that a key fob ceases working is because its batteries are dying. Key fob batteries generally last between three and five years, which is why it's a good idea to buy new batteries regularly.
The majority of people can replace the battery inside a key fob at home. You'll need a flat-head screwdriver in order to pry the case open. Once you have it opened, you'll be able replace the old battery. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells that are available at most auto parts stores.
A damaged receiver may be the reason behind your key fob not responding. This can be a very frustrating issue that usually happens while you are driving. If your key fob isn't appearing to be receiving any signals, try placing it inside the driver's door lock.
A damaged receiver may also cause your keyfob to act in a strange manner. For example it may shut off or lock the vehicle when you press one of its buttons. Try using a spare keyfob to see whether the vehicle responds. If you don't have an extra key fob, you can call your dealer for assistance. In some instances an auto dealership may be able to offer the replacement at no cost when your current fob is under warranty.
Damaged Key Fob Receiver
Key fobs can have a number of problems. They're useful devices that allow us to lock or unlock, as well as start our vehicles. If your car's remote key fob isn't working as it should, it may be time to call an auto locksmith or locksmith dealer for help. Fortunately, many common key fob issues are easily solved without having to shell out for a costly replacement. Here are the five most common reasons why your key fob may not be working:
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
In time, the transmitter and receiver of a key fob for your car may become out of sync. To fix this problem, you will need to sync the key fob and its receiver following the instructions for reprogramming your vehicle. These instructions can be found in your owner's manual, or you can contact the dealer near you to assist you.
If re-programming your key fob doesn't solve the issue, there could be other damage or interference to your key fob or its receiver. Fortunately, this is usually simple to fix by opening your key fob to get a closer view of the inside. Find indications of damage, such as cracks in the circuit board, tiny electronic components that aren't completely attached to the circuit board, or bent or the battery contacts are oxidized. Repair the key fob if you find any of the above.
If you're looking to replace or repair your key fob, the best solution depends on the cause of the problem and how much you value convenience and cost. However, if your key fob was damaged by a fall or other forms of physical damage it might be simpler and more affordable to replace it by an expert. In any case, be certain to take care of your key fob so it can provide you with years of smooth operation. You can prolong its lifespan by regularly cleaning it and avoid extreme temperatures or electromagnetic fields. By selecting a professional with experience with the model and make of your vehicle you can be certain that your key fob is functioning as it should be.