How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we test them a lot keys aren't impervious to destruction. In fact, they are able to be destroyed in a variety of ways.
Other issues could be more important than an unresponsive battery. Luckily, most of them can be resolved with a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed to extreme heat or humid temperatures or water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
The LED light will typically stop blinking when the battery in your car key fob is running low. The key fob could also stop working at the same distance it used to. In this instance it might be necessary to re-program the key fob or even replace it entirely.
It is easy to replace the car keyfob battery. Find out the type of battery that is used. The type of battery you are using should be stamped on the side of your key fob. If you're unsure it is, an easy Google search will be helpful. Once you have found the kind of battery you want and the key fob, you can open it at the seam. Make use of a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to separate the two halves. Then, take out the battery that was removed and replace it with an alternative 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 realize their fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons aren't responding. In some cases, this can be solved by reprogramming the fob, but that can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and see if they can jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.
If you've tried all of these options and your car still won't start then it's time to contact an expert. A certified technician can determine if your car's computer system needs reprogramming or if the fob requires a replacement battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your key fob. In the end, sometimes a brand new fob is the most effective solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob can take a lot of physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, the circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair amount of wear and tear over the course of time, so it's important to be aware and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob functioning efficiently.
The easiest thing to check is to ensure that the battery inside the key fob isn't dying. Replace the battery to determine if it resolves the issue. If this does not work, you may have to open the fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge because some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them and you may damage your fob if you try to pull it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, however it is recommended to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or defective key circuit board for the fob is another common problem. This can be caused by various factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob has stopped functioning completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed with a locksmith that specializes 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 must contact the other device manufacturer to ensure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
It is also possible to replace a switch or other electrical component inside your key fob. This is a harder fix, but you can find guides online that show you how to do it yourself. Be cautious when doing this because the circuit boards that are inside your key fob are small and are susceptible to breaking in the event of rough handling. If you're doing this yourself, make sure to make use of an SMT switch of good quality and then solder the switch into place correctly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are prone to a lot wear and wear and tear. They are prone to being dropped and are frequently moving around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause buttons to wear out or stuck. A simple adjustment can solve the issue.
Most modern key fobs have sensors that detect when they've been used. This is because they lower the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding when pushed, that's an indication that they're worn-out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also have an internal circuit board which transmits signals to your car. The signals include commands to unlock and lock and commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then your key fob might not unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.
If you're forced to press the buttons harder than normal to activate them If this is the case, then your key fob buttons are wearing out. Your fob might also stop sending an alert to your car or have a smaller range.
If you're unable unlock your key fob, unlock or start your vehicle, it's crucial to contact an emergency locksmith in your area. They can determine if your key fob is damaged or if the cylinder of your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, most car key fob problems aren't a major or difficult issue. Keep an extra key fob in your vehicle at all times to avoid being thrown off by a malfunctioning one. This will ensure that you're never trapped in a place because of an unreliable or lost key. Of course, if you do lose your spare car key, a locksmith will be able to change the key so that it works with your car's ignition. They'll also be able to fix any internal damage that's occurred on the key fob.
Broken Case
The case of a key fob does more than just shield the batteries and buttons. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you hit the button on your key fob. The board transmits the signal from your key fob to your car.
Your key fob won't work if the board is damaged. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead will just need to be reprogrammed, which is something that your local auto locksmith or the dealership can assist you with.
Another reason your key fob may not be functioning is that the batteries are dead. The battery can be replaced at your home. The good news is that you can get the replacement battery on the internet or at a local auto parts store since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
There are many ways to open a key fob to get inside it, based on the kind. A quick search on the internet will identify the type of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it takes. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out and the new one in.
When repairing key fob repair near me broken key fob, the most important concern is not to destroy the circuit or buttons more. If you attempt to remove a key fob with an edge that is sharp like a screwdriver can break the case or crack the plastic. Fortunately, a replacement case is cheap and you can get a whole fob assembly with the electronics from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
So, if your key fob doesn't work, check to see if the batteries are dead or if the circuit board is damaged. If that's not the situation, a professional could repair it for you quickly and inexpensively. If not, remote key fob repair could be time to replace the fob. Make sure to verify the warranty on any replacement or used fobs purchased online.