3 Reasons Commonly Cited For Why Your Key Fob Repair Service Isn't Performing (And Solutions To Resolve It)
Key Fob Repair ServiceKey fobs can be damaged. Depending on how they're stored and how often they are moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Fortunately, the majority of key fob issues are relatively simple to solve. But some are more serious and require assistance from a professional. This is when a locksmith can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs are pretty intelligent however it doesn't mean they can't occasionally find themselves in the "not responding" zone. When this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. This doesn't solve the problem since there may be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.
The car makers are aware of the potential issue, and often add a second mechanical key inside the fob to be used in an emergency. To access this, you can locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for more details). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob and gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
It is also necessary to be close to your car to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in power when its battery dies. This limits its range.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase a button cell battery (which looks like a tiny silver coin) to replace your fob, and follow the user's guideline or video instructions on how to take out the old one. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same direction that the old one was inserted (the positive side should be facing upward toward the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its start, lock and unlock functions to make sure that the battery was installed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by locating the latch, screw or switch at the back and prying the fob off. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so take care not to harm it! If you're not comfortable doing this yourself then you can send your key fob to an expert. Because it's a standard procedure, most auto shops will change the battery in the fob for a small charge. Some dealers may even do it for no cost depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
Replace the batteries if your key fob doesn't work. This is the quickest fix and is the most likely way to fix the issue. If your fob is still not working after a battery change it may be due to damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
Damage can occur to the car key fob for many reasons, such as physical trauma, exposure to water, or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle and prevent your car's doors or ignition from locking or even starting. It is possible that you will need to hire a professional to replace your key if it's damaged.
In the same way, the buttons on your device may have worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and may begin to fail to detect your press accurately. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, but it is usually best to get the fob examined by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
It is important to ensure that the battery you're using is a exact match for your fob. You can find a list of compatible batteries online or at most hardware stores. You must always refer to your owner's manual or engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the type of mobile car key repair near me battery it needs. A battery that is not a perfect match can have issues transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the internal components of the fob.
In some cases, the problem could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door, and then trying to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle then a mechanic should inspect the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob is composed of many components, and one malfunction can cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob stops working, it's important that you check for obvious causes like cracks in the casing or a broken component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the car to make sure they are functioning correctly.
It's better to replace the key fob in case it's damaged, rather than attempt to repair it. It might be necessary to reprogramme the fob to connect to your car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is especially true if you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.
Over time, the internal wiring in a key fob can also get worn out. It can lead to a button that doesn't work when pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It could also result in the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is pressed.
Most fobs come with the cover of plastic which can be loosened and safely cleaned with soap and water. This is a great way to restore a key fob to functioning properly and it's a good practice to clean it regularly to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A damaged battery is the most common reason that the key fob won't start or function. Most mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you're comfortable installing the battery yourself then you can buy an additional one from the big-box or hardware store and follow the instructions on YouTube or in your owner's manual.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damages, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit boards or corroded and bent battery contact points. If any of these are the situation, it's a good idea to talk to an auto locksmith or dealer for a recommendation on a replacement and help to program it to your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and open the doors of your car. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some cases the issue may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is determining why the fob doesn't work correctly.
The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your car is broken. The connection can be restored without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other problems could occur. This could happen if the key has been damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to reconnect your key with your car. You can do this by following the instructions that come with the key fob. It's also a good idea to carry an extra key in case you need to make use of it in the case that your primary key isn't working.
The fob might not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This can be due to a weak battery in the car, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob to see if it is the problem. If the tester doesn't light up when one of the buttons is pressed, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob is damaged.
Another possible reason for the fob not sending a strong enough signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is hindering it from doing so. This could happen in the event that your key fob isn't been programmed correctly, or if you have a software issue.
If you can't fix the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to repair it, you should purchase an entirely new one. You can find affordable alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some can even be delivered to your doorstep.