How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we use them many a times, key fobs are not impervious to destruction. In fact, they can break down in a variety of ways.
Other issues could be more important than an unresponsive battery. Fortunately, many of these issues can be solved by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is probably the most common reason why the car key fob stop functioning. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity or water. It's a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet just in case.
The LED light will usually stop glowing when the battery in your car key fob is running low. It's also possible that your key fob won't function from the same distance it did in the past. In this instance it might be necessary to reprogram the key fob or replace it completely.
Fortunately, replacing a car key fob battery is easy. First, determine what type of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. Google can help in case you're unsure. The key fob can be opened across the seam after you've identified the battery type. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail, to pry apart the two halves. Then, remove the old battery and insert the new one in its place. Then, insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers may not be aware the fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons aren't responding. This can be fixed by reprogramming the fob. However it can be time-consuming and expensive. You can also contact roadside assistance to determine if they are able to jumpstart your car and get it back on the road.
If you've tried every solution but your vehicle doesn't turn on, it's time to speak with an expert. A certified technician can determine if your car's computer system needs to be reprogrammed or the fob simply requires a replacement battery. They can also recommend an auto shop to replace your key fob. Sometimes, however, a new fob could be the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob can take many physical abuses and isn't indestructible. The battery, circuit board, and buttons all get their fair amount of wear and tear over the course of time, so it's important to be vigilant and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob operating efficiently.
The easiest thing to check is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't dead. If it is replaced, check if it fixes your problem. If not, you may need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge since some key fobs do not have a release mechanism that is easy to unlock them, and you can easily end up damaging your key fob if try to pull it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob. However, you should adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer to avoid damaging the.
A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be caused by a number of things like dirt or moisture that gets into the battery compartment software, hardware issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob isn't working, you may be interested in getting it replaced. This can be done by a locksmith who specializes in this work.
Radio interference is another possibility. This can occur in the event that you have other wireless devices around that transmit at the same frequency, for example, radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation you must get in touch with the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob has an unreliable switch or electrical component that should be replaced. There are online guides that show you how to fix this yourself. Be cautious when doing this, though, as the circuit boards inside the key fob are tiny and are susceptible to breaking if they are handled roughly. If you decide to do this yourself, make sure to use a high quality SMT switch and then solder it to the correct place.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs can suffer lots of wear and wear and tear. They are prone to getting dropped and spend a lot of time being jostled in your pocket or purse. The jolting can cause buttons to wear out or become stuck. A simple adjustment can fix the issue.
The majority of modern key fobs have sensors on them that detect if they've been pressed. This is due to the fact that they decrease the chances of someone stealing your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when you press them, that's an indication that they're worn out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board that is in the key fob also sends signals to your car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands and commands to start your engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, then your key fob might not be able to unlock or start your engine. This kind of damage is usually caused by water or blunt force.
You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating when you press the buttons more than normal to get them to function. Your fob might also stop sending a signal to your car or have a smaller range.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you're not able to use your key fob for your vehicle. They can tell if the key fob is damaged or if the cylinder in your ignition is worn out.
Luckily, car remote key repair shop near me in cars aren't too serious or complex. The best way to avoid being surprised by an unresponsive key fob is to have an extra key in your possession at all times. You won't be left stranded because of a malfunctioning or lost key. If you do lose your car key spare, a locksmith can help reset it to work with the ignition in your car. They can also repair any internal damage to the key fob.
Broken Case
The case of a key fob does more than protect the buttons and batteries. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic when you press the key fob button. This board takes the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.
Your key fob will not work if this board is damaged. Sometimes, a dead key fob may need to be reprogrammed which is something your local auto locksmith or the dealership can assist you with.
Batteries may be the cause the key fob's not working. This is a simple solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. You can get an alternative battery at the local auto parts store or on the internet. These batteries are not only intended for key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob, there is various ways to open it and access the insides. You can determine the kind of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick online search. From there, you can buy the replacement and simply take the old one out and the new one in.
When repairing a broken key fob, the most important concern is not to destroy the circuit or buttons in any way. If you attempt to pull off the key fob with an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it could break the plastic or break the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can purchase a complete fob assembly including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob isn't working look into whether the batteries are dead or if the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the situation, a professional could repair it quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Make sure to verify the warranty of any replacement or used fobs purchased online.