How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we use them many a times, key fobs are not impervious to destruction. They can be destroyed in various ways.
While the most common problem is an unresponsive battery but other issues can be much more serious. The majority of these issues can be resolved with a simple fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is probably the most frequent reason the car key fob stops working. Fob batteries can deplete quickly, especially if they are exposed to extreme heat or humid temperatures or water. It's a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet in case.
You can usually tell when your car key fob's battery is dying by the fact that the LED light will stop glowing. The key fob could also stop working from the same distance it was previously working to. In this instance, it may be necessary to reprogram the key fob or replace it completely.
Fortunately the replacement of a car key fob battery is a simple task. First, determine what kind of battery is being used. The type should be engraved on the side of the fob. If you're not sure then a quick Google search will help. car key remote repairs along the seam after you have identified the type of battery. You will need to use a small flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry the two halves apart. Then, you can remove the battery that was removed and replace it with the new one in its place. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up toward the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons don't respond. This can be corrected by reprogramming the fob. However it could be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and see if they can jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you have tried both of these solutions and your car still won't start then it's time to call a professional. A certified technician will be able to determine if your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob needs an upgrade in battery. They will also suggest a reputable auto shop to replace your key fob. In the end it is not always the case that a new fob is the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
Key fobs aren't indestructible, but it is able to be able to withstand a variety of physical harm. The battery, the circuit board, and buttons all get their fair share of wear and tear with time, so it's important to be vigilant and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob working well.
The easiest way to test is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't depleted. If it is then replace the battery and determine if this fixes the issue. If not, you'll need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It is sometimes difficult to open some key fobs due to the fact that they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You can damage the fob by trying to force it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or damaged key circuit board for the fob is another frequent issue. This can be caused by various factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment, software issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob has stopped working completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed with an expert locksmith who specializes in this type of work.
Radio interference is also a possibility. This can happen if there are other wireless devices operating on the same frequency your key fob, like radar detectors, home security systems. If this is the situation you need to contact the manufacturer of the other device to ensure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.
You may also need to replace a switch or another electrical component of your key fob. This is a more difficult fix, but you can find online guides that will show you how to do it yourself. You should be careful when doing this, however, because the circuit board inside your key fob is small and can easily break when handled rough. If you're doing this yourself, be sure to use a good quality SMT switch and solder it into place properly.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are prone to quite a bit of wear and tear. They are susceptible to being dropped and spend a lot time being tossed around in your pocket or purse. Sometimes, this jolting can cause the buttons to become worn out or stuck. A simple adjustment can solve the problem.
The majority of modern key fobs have sensors on them that tell if they've been pressed. They're designed to do this because they can help decrease the chance of someone stealing your car. If your key fob's buttons don't respond when pushed this is a sign that they're worn-out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board in the key fob also transmits signals to your car. The signals include commands to unlock and lock and instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside is damaged, your key fob will not allow you to unlock or start your engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt, or something scratching the circuit board.
If you're forced to press the buttons harder than usual in order to activate them the key fob's buttons are getting worn out. Additionally your fob could stop sending a signal to the car or have a lower range than it did before.
Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to use your key fob to start your car. They can determine if your key fob is damaged or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Luckily, most key fob issues in cars aren't too serious or complex. The best way to avoid getting caught off guard by an unresponsive key fob is to keep an extra in your pocket at all times. This will ensure that you're not stuck in a bind due to a lost or malfunctioning key. If you lose your spare key, a professional locksmith can reset it to work with your vehicle's engine. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that's occurred to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob is more than just shield the batteries and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that executes all the electrical magic when you press a key fob button. This board transmits 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 require reprogramming by a local auto locksmith or dealership.
Another reason your key fob may not be working is because the batteries are dying. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished at home by replacing the battery. The positive side is that you can locate the replacement battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
Depending on the kind of key fob, there are different ways to open it and gain access to the inside. A quick internet search should show you which type of key fob you have and what kind of battery it requires. You can then purchase a new one, take the old one out, and then insert the new one into.
When fixing a damaged key fob, the most important concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons further. Trying to pry apart the key fob using an edge that is sharp like a screwdriver could break the case or scratch the plastic. Luckily, a replacement case is inexpensive and you can buy the entire fob and the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
So, if your key fob doesn't work, check to see if the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this is not the case, you can have it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. If not, car key remote repairs could be time to replace the fob. Just be sure to check for a warranty on any used or replacement fobs you buy on the internet.