How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we use them many a times keys aren't impervious to destruction. In fact, they can be destroyed in a variety of ways.
Other issues can be more important than the battery being dead. Luckily, most of them can be resolved by a simple DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is likely the most common reason the car key fob stops functioning. Fob batteries are prone to draining quickly, particularly if they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
The LED light will usually stop glowing when the battery in your car key fob is running low. It's also possible that the fob will no longer work at the same distance it did in the past. In this scenario the key fob could need to be programmed again or replaced entirely.
It is simple to replace the battery in a car keyfob. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is being used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. If you're unsure then a quick Google search will be helpful. Open the key fob along the seam after you've identified the battery type. You will need to use an small screwdriver with a flat head or your fingernail to split the two halves. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one. Make sure you insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing towards the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers aren't aware that their fob has gone out of service until they lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons stop working. This can be fixed by reprogramming your fob. However it can be time-consuming and expensive. You can also contact roadside assistance to see whether they can start your vehicle and get it back on the road.
If you have tried both of these solutions and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time for a professional. A qualified technician will be able to determine whether your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob requires a new battery. They can also recommend a reputable auto repair shop to replace your key fob. In the end, sometimes a brand new fob is the most effective solution.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob is not indestructible, but it is able to endure a lot of physical damage. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is essential to take care of these components to ensure your key fob remains in good condition.
The most straightforward thing to do is that the battery in your key fob isn't dead. Replace the battery to determine if it resolves your problem. If this doesn't work, you might need to open the fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be tricky because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms to open them up and you may damage your fob if you attempt to break it. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, but you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or corrupted key circuit board for the fob is another frequent issue. This can be caused by a number of things 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, you may be interested in having it reprogrammed. This can be done by a locksmith that specializes in this kind of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. This could happen if there are other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency as your key fob, like a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the situation you need to contact the manufacturer of the other device 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 should be replaced. You can find online guides that will help you fix this yourself. It's important to be careful when you do this because the circuit boards in your key fob are small and are susceptible to breaking if they are handled roughly. If you do this yourself, be sure to use a good quality SMT switch and then solder it into place properly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs can get quite a bit of wear and wear and tear. They're prone to being dropped and spend a lot of time being tossed around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jolting can cause the buttons to become worn out or become stuck. When this happens an easy adjustment could be all it takes to restore the button's functionality.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that detect when they have been pressed. They're designed to do this to lower the risk of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when you press them, they're worn out and need to be replaced.
car key fob repairs near me fobs also have an internal circuit board that transmits signals to the car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands and also commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside is damaged, then your key fob may not allow you to unlock or start your engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force, or something scratching the circuit board.
If you have to press the buttons more than usual in order to get them to function the key fob's buttons are becoming worn out. Your fob could not be sending an alert to your car or have a smaller range.
If you're unable to unlock your key fob, unlock or start your car, you need to find a locksmith in your area immediately. They'll be able determine whether the key fob is damaged or your ignition cylinder has worn out.
Fortunately, most car keyfob problems aren't complicated or serious. The best way to avoid getting caught off guard by an unresponsive key fob is to have an extra key in your possession at all times. You'll never be stranded due to a malfunctioning or lost key. If you lose your spare key, an expert locksmith can rekey it to work with your vehicle's engine. They'll also be able fix any internal damage that has occurred to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of your key fob is more than just a place to store the battery and buttons. It also houses the circuit board responsible for all the electrical magic when you hit a button on your key fob. The circuit board relays the signal from your key fob to your car.
Your key fob will not work if this board is damaged. A dead key fob might only need to be reprogrammed by your local auto locksmith or dealership.
Batteries could be the cause of your key fob not working. This is a simple fix that you can do at home by replacing the battery. The good news is that you can get a replacement battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
Depending on the kind of key fob, there are various ways to open it and access the insides. A quick search on the internet will reveal what kind of key fob you have and the type of battery it takes. From there, you can purchase an alternative and then simply pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
The most important thing to consider when fixing the broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. If you attempt to pull apart the key fob using the screwdriver or another sharp edge, it could crack the plastic or damage the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can buy a complete fob assembly including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob doesn't work look into whether the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this is not the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and easily by a professional. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Make sure to verify the warranty of any fob replacement or used that you purchase on the internet.