Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can get stuck or freelegal.ch break based on the way they are stored and how much they are jostled.

Luckily, most problems with the key fob are simple to fix. However, there are some that are more complicated and will require professional help. This is when a locksmith can help.

Dead Fob Battery

Car key fobs are pretty intelligent however that doesn't mean they don't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. This won't fix the issue because it could be due to an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they usually include a spare key mechanical inside the fob for just such an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release button or latch behind the fob (check the user's manual for specifics). When you press this button, you will be able to open the fob and reveal a physical key that you can use to unlock the car.

Another indication that your fob's batteries are dying is that you have to be much closer to the car to open and lock it than you did before. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength when its battery dies and limits the range of operation.

Replacing the battery is straightforward and relatively inexpensive. Be sure to purchase a button cell battery (which looks like a tiny silver coin) for your fob, and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to remove the old battery. After that, replace the new battery in the same direction that the previous one was placed (the positive side should be facing upward toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and start functions of the fob after reassembling it to ensure the battery has been installed correctly.

You can unlock some key fobs by finding the latch, screw or switch in the back and prying the fob in two. You'll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so take care not to damage it! If you're not confident doing this on your own it's also possible to bring your key fob to a professional. Many auto shops will change the battery of a fob for a small fee as it's an often-used repair service. Some dealers may even perform the swap for free, based on the model and year of your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Working

Replace the batteries if the key fob doesn't work. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your device is not working after a battery change it may be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.

The car key fob could be damaged for many reasons, including physical injury or exposure to water or a corroded board. These problems can prevent your key from sending the signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which could cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from unlocking. If your fob is damaged, it's likely you will need a professional to repair or replace the component or the entire device.

Similarly, the buttons on your device may have become worn out with repeated use. Rubber can wear out making the buttons less clicky or springy. They can also stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if that fixes the issue, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to a professional examined for more comprehensive repairs.

You should also double check that the battery you're using is a exact match to your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores. You must always refer to your owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which type of battery it needs. If the battery is not the correct fit, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and providing sufficient power to internal components.

In very rare cases it could be the case that the issue isn't the key fob itself but rather with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the door with a physical key and then start the car with the inductive backup (if available). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle check with a mechanic the receiver and electronic components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.

Fobs that are damaged

A key fob is comprised of many components, and one malfunction can cause other parts to fail. When a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's an obvious cause like a cracked case or a damaged internal component. It's also important to check other parts of the vehicle, such as the lights and horn to determine whether those are working normally.

If the fob for your key is damaged, you should get a replacement from your dealer or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to repair it. The fob could require reprogramming in the car, which is something that isn't something you can do at home, and it requires specialized equipment for doing so.

The buttons on a key fob utilize contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they can wear down over time. This is especially common if the device is dropped or left in hot weather.

As time passes the internal wiring of the key fob could get worn out. This can result in a button not working when it's pressed or only functioning when it's pressed extremely hard. This can also result in the car not being able to start or unlock when the fob is used.

Most fobs come with a plastic cover that can be opened and then cleaned with water and soap. This is a great way to bring a fob back to functioning properly, and it's a good practice to clean it often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.

A faulty battery is typically the reason the key fob will not turn on or function. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you're comfortable with the installation and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase a new one at the big-box or hardware store and follow the directions on YouTube or in the owner's manual.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, like cracks in the case, tiny electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit board, or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of these are the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions on a replacement and help to program it to your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Programming

Car key fobs are an excellent convenience that allows you to unlock your car doors and then start the engine. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some cases, the issue can be resolved by replacing the battery. However, in other situations it may require a more complex repair. The first step is to identify the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.

The most frequent reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This happens if the connection between the remote and your car is cut off. The connection can be restored without the need for expensive key fob repair.

Other issues could arise when the key fob isn't able to sends a clear signal. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, try to resync the key to your vehicle. This can be accomplished by following the instructions on the key fob. It's also recommended to carry an additional key fob repair near me to make use of it in the event that your primary key isn't working.

The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be caused by weak car batteries, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the problem by using the remote key repair tester. If the tester does not illuminate when you press one of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery needs to be replaced or the fob is been damaged.

A car's immobilizer could also hinder a fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly or if there's a software issue.

If you're unable to repair the fob or it isn't worth the trouble to try to fix it, you should buy an entirely new one. You can find low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some can even be delivered to your doorstep.