Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob that breaks down can be an inconvenient situation. Most fob issues can be solved at home with an auto locksmith or aren't urgent.
First, examine the fob that you use to check if it has any physical damage or an inoperative battery. Then, try resetting the fob by following the instructions in the owner's manual.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
A key fob allows you to open and start your car without fumbling around with your physical keys. Some models even unlock doors, hatchbacks and trunks at the touch of a button. A broken key fob isn't as difficult to fix as it might appear. You can take your car to an repair shop or a dealership for help. But did you know that you could fix your fob on your own?
First, you'll need a brand new CR2032. The majority of hardware stores sell them in multipacks. Make use of a flathead screwdriver, or a watch to pry the case open. After you've widened the first gap and you're ready to make use of your tool to further open the case. It is recommended to be gentle; you don't want to damage the case of the fob, or the circuit board inside.
Once you've got the case open, put the new battery under the tabs highlighted by yellow arrows in the photo. Make sure that it is past the two smaller tabs indicated by green arrows. Close your key fob after you have installed the new battery and then test it. If the key fob isn't working, you might need to contact a professional for a more thorough troubleshooting.
In rare cases replacing a battery on a keyfob may result in a malfunctioning device. If this happens, it's a sign that something else is wrong with the fob or the vehicle itself. It's a good idea keep an extra key fob in the shelf so that you are ready if the original battery fails or a different issue occurs.
In addition to battery replacement, you can ask a professional to inspect and perform other key fob repairs. They can inspect for damages to buttons, contacts and other parts and perform reprogramming and synchronization in the event that the vehicle is having a difficult time communicating with your key fob.
Damaged Key Fob Battery
Most key fobs rely on a small battery to power their internal components, such as buttons that activate the chip and antenna to release the radio frequency. The battery also powers the plastic casing which protects these components. If the battery is dead and your key fob stops working, it won't work. The solution is easy and cost-effective: replace the battery. In their user's manuals most manufacturers will provide you with instructions on how to replace the key fob batteries. The process isn't easy, but it is not hard to do and you'll likely save money by doing it yourself instead of bringing the fob into a dealership or auto shop.
If your key fob is still not working after replacing the battery, you could have a different problem. Examine the key fob for signs of physical damage, such as cracks or scratches. You can also examine the circuit board by opening the case. If you feel comfortable doing this, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the contact points on the key fob's circuit board. This will eliminate the corrosion without damaging the fob.
Key fobs must also be programmed to connect to the receiver of the vehicle. This is to ensure that only persons who have keys for the same vehicle are able to unlock the car and to stop other key fobs from attempting to access vehicles that they are not intended for. If you've recently had a key fob repaired or replaced, or in the event that it hasn't been used for a while the transmitter and receiver could have been disconnected.
One way to test this is by using a spare key fob you have. This will let you know whether the issue is related to the keyfob or with the electrical systems of your vehicle. A car mechanic will be able to connect any wires that are disconnected and help you resolve the issue. Alternately, you could try to connect the key fob to a different receiver in your car and see if that solves the issue. If you're unable to connect your key fob to a different receiver in your vehicle, you might need to take it to a car dealership or auto repair shop for more specific repairs.
Key Fob Transmitter Damaged
When your car key fob stops working, it can be a major hassle. The majority of car key fobs can be repairable by following a few simple steps. First, check the fob for physical damage and make sure it's just dead. A new battery might be all that's needed but if it's not enough to fix the issue, there could be a larger problem with the fob transmitter.
Car key fobs contain a lot of moving parts, so it's not unusual to expect them to suffer wear and tear over the course of time. A damaged transmitter could stop you from opening the car's doors or starting it. its doors. A damaged transmitter could also interfere with radio signals that are sent from your key fob to the receiver inside the car. Bring your key fob to a technician to be repaired and inspected in the event that you think that the transmitter may be damaged.
Batteries are usually the reason of a key fob that isn't working. Key fob batteries last between three and 5 years. It's best to replace them regularly.
Most people can replace the battery on the key fob at home. All you require is a screwdriver with a flat head to pry off the case and then you can replace the old battery with a brand new one. Most key fobs use 3V button cell batteries, which are readily available at many auto parts stores.
A defective receiver could also be the reason behind your key fob not responding. This could be a frustrating problem because it usually happens when you're driving. If you find that your key fob doesn't receive an alert from your vehicle, 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 close or shut off the vehicle when you push one of its buttons. Try using an alternate keyfob to determine if the vehicle will respond. Contact your dealer if do not have an extra keyfob. In certain cases, a new-car dealership may be able to offer the replacement at no cost in the event that the current fob is in warranty.
Keys damaged Fob Receiver
Key fobs can be prone to several issues. They are convenient tools that let us lock and unlock our cars. If the remote key fob for your vehicle isn't working properly it's likely that you need to contact a locksmith or auto dealer. Fortunately, most common key fob issues are easily solved without having to spend money on a costly replacement. Here are five of the most common reasons why your key fob might not be working:
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
Over time, the key fob receiver and transmitter could get out of sync with each and the other. To fix this problem, you will have to reconnect the key fob and its receiver by following the instructions for reprogramming your vehicle. These instructions can be found in your owner's manual, or you can ask the dealer near you to assist you.
If reprogramming your keyfob does not solve the issue, there may be a problem or an interference with your keyfob or receiver. Luckily, this is often simple to repair by opening your key fob to take a closer inspection of the inside. Find indications of damage, such as cracks on the board, tiny electronic components that aren’t attached to the board, or damaged or bent battery contacts. Repair the key fob if you find any of the above.
If you have to replace or repair your key fob, the ideal solution depends on the cause of the issue and the amount you value convenience and price. If your key fob has been dropped or subjected to various physical harms it could be simpler and less expensive to replace it by an expert. In any case, you must take good care of your key fob so that it can function smoothly for a long time. By cleaning it regularly and avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures or electromagnetic fields, you can ensure that it will last as long as is possible. By choosing car key remote repair who is familiar with the model and make of your vehicle you can be certain that your key fob will always be working as intended.