How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we use them numerous times, key fobs are not indestructible. In fact, they are able to break down in a variety of ways.
The most frequent issue is an unresponsive battery, other issues can be more serious. Most of these issues can be solved by a quick fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the main reason for a key fob that is not working. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, particularly if they are exposed to hot or cold temperatures, humidity, or water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
It is easy to tell that the battery of your car key fob is depleted because the light on the LED will stop glowing. It's also possible that your key fob won't work from the same distance as it did in the past. In this case the key fob could need to be programmed again or replaced completely.
Fortunately the replacement of the car key fob battery is a simple task. First, find out what type of battery is used. The type of battery you are using should be stamped on the side of your key fob. Google can assist you in case you're unsure. Once you have found the kind of battery you want you want to use, open the key fob at the junction. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to pry apart the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one. Insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that the fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons do not respond. In some cases, this can be solved by reprogramming your fob, however, this can be expensive and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and see if they are able to jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you've tried both of these solutions and your car still won't start then it's time to call an expert. car key repair cost trained technician can tell if your car's computer needs changing its programming, or if the fob only requires an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend a reputable auto repair shop to replace your key fob. Sometimes an entirely new fob might be the best solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
Key fobs aren't indestructible, but it is able to endure a lot of physical damage. The battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these parts to ensure your key fob remains in good working order.
Make sure that the battery still functioning in your key fob. If it is replaced, see if that fixes your issue. If not, you may have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It can be difficult to open some key fobs because they do not have an easy-release mechanism. You can damage your fob by trying to take it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, but you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is a damaged or faulty circuit board inside the key fob. This can be due to many things like dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software, hardware issues, or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob isn't working completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed with locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen if you have other wireless devices around that transmit on the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, you should check with the other manufacturers of the device to make sure that your key fob's signal isn't affected by their signals.
It is also possible to replace a switch or another electrical component in your key fob. There are online guides that will show you how to fix this yourself. Be car key fob repair to be careful, however, since the circuit board inside the key fob is tiny and can easily break if handled roughly. If you decide to do this yourself, make sure to use a good quality SMT switch and solder it into place properly.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot wear and tear. They are prone to being dropped and spend a lot of time jostled around in your purse or pocket. This jostling can sometimes cause buttons to wear out or become stuck. A simple adjustment can fix the problem.
The majority of modern key fobs have sensors that tell if they've been pressed. They're made to do this to decrease the chance of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when pressed, they are worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also have an electronic circuit inside that sends signals to the car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, and instructions to start the engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, your key fob will not allow you to unlock or start your engine. This kind of damage is typically caused by blunt force or water.
If you're having to press the buttons more than usual to get them to function, then your key fob buttons are becoming worn out. Additionally your fob could stop sending a signal to the car or it'll have less range than before.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are not able to use the key fob to access your vehicle. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob itself is damaged or if your ignition cylinder has worn down.
Fortunately, most key fob issues in cars aren't a major or difficult issue. The best way to avoid getting taken by surprise by a malfunctioning key fob is to have an extra in your pocket at all times. You won't be left stranded due to an issue with your key or a lost one. If you lose your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They can also fix any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob does more than just protect the batteries and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that does all the electrical magic every time you press a key fob button. The board transmits the signal from your key fob to your car.
If this board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to function. Sometimes, a dead key fob may need to be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.
Another reason why your key fob may not be working is that the batteries are dying. The battery can be replaced at your home. The good thing is that you can locate an alternative battery on the internet or at a local auto parts store since the batteries aren't limited to key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob you have, there are different ways to open it and gain access to the inside. A quick internet search should identify the type of key fob you have and the type of battery it takes. From there, you can purchase a replacement and easily pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
The main concern when you repair the broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons any further. If you attempt to remove the fob using an edge that is sharp like a screwdriver can damage the case or even damage the plastic. Fortunately, a replacement case is cheap and you can buy the entire fob and the electronics from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
So, if your key fob isn't working look into whether the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board has been damaged. If this is not the case, you can have it repaired quickly and cheaply by an expert. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs that you purchase online.