Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
Having your key fob break down is a frustrating situation. Fortunately, most fob issues aren't major or difficult and can be resolved at home or by an auto locksmith near you.
First, check the fob that you use to check whether it is suffering from physical damage or a dead battery. Then, try resetting the fob by following the instructions in the owner's manual.
Dead Key Fob Battery
With a key fob you can start and unlock your vehicle without fumbling around with your keys. Many models unlock doors, hatchbacks, and trunks by pressing a button. A dead key fob isn't as difficult to fix as it might appear. Many car owners know that they can go to a dealership or repair shop to get help but did you know that you can also try to fix your own fob at home?
You'll require a brand-new CR2032. Most hardware stores carry batteries in multipacks. Use a flathead screwdriver or watch to push the case open. There's usually a slot or notch to start and after you've created the first gap, you can wedge your pry tool like you peeling an apple or an orange to open the case more. You should be gentle, as you don't wish to harm the fob or its circuit board.
Place company website in the tabs that are marked with yellow arrows on this photo. Make sure that it is past the two smaller tabs indicated by the green arrows. After the new battery is installed, close your key fob, and then test it. If it's still not working, it might be the right time to contact an expert for more detailed troubleshooting.
In rare cases, replacing the battery in the fob's key can result in a malfunctioning device. If this happens, it's a sign that something else is wrong with the fob or the vehicle itself. It's a good idea to keep a spare key fob on the shelf so that you are ready if the original battery is dead or a problem occurs.
You can also request a professional to carry out other key fob repair services. They can look for damaged buttons or contacts, as well as other parts. They can also do the reprogramming process or synchronization if your vehicle is having trouble communicating with your key fob.
Key Fob Battery Damage
Most key fobs rely on small batteries to power their internal components, such as buttons that activate the chip and antenna to emit the radio frequency. The battery also powers plastic casings that protect these components. If the battery is dead and your key fob stops working, it will not function. The solution is easy and affordable: replace the battery. In the owner's manual of their product most manufacturers will provide you with instructions on how to replace the key fob's batteries. It's not a difficult task and you can save money by doing it yourself instead of taking the fob to a dealer or auto shop.
If your key fob not working after replacing the battery, you may have a different issue. Check the key fob for signs of physical damage, for example cracks or dents. You can also examine the circuit board by opening the case. If you feel comfortable doing this, you can use a cotton swab coated with rubbing alcohol to clean the contact points on the key fob's circuit board. This will remove corrosion without damaging the fob.
The key fobs must also be programmed to connect to the vehicle receiver. This is to ensure that only persons who have keys for the same vehicle are able to unlock the car and to stop other key fobs from trying to access vehicles they were not designed for. If you've recently had your key fob replaced or repaired, or in the event that it hasn't been used for a while the receiver and transmitter could have been disconnected.
You can test this by using a spare remote control that you have. This will inform you whether the issue is with the key fob or the electrical system of your vehicle. A mechanic can assist you to fix the problem by reconnecting any disconnected wires. You could also try connecting the key fob with a different receiver and see if this fixes the problem. If you're unable to connect your key fob to a different receiver in your vehicle, you may be required to take it to a dealership or auto repair shop for more detailed repairs.
Key Fob Transmitter Damaged
When your car key fob isn't working, it could be a major hassle. Thankfully, most key fobs for cars can be repaired with just a few steps. Check the fob to determine whether it's suffering from physical damage and ensure that it is not just dead. If a new battery does not fix the issue, it could be a more serious issue.
It's not a surprise that car key fobs wear out with time. They are made up of many moving parts. A damaged transmitter could stop you from starting your car or unlocking its doors. Additionally the damaged transmitter could interfere with radio signals sent between your key fob and the receiver inside the vehicle. If you suspect that your key fob transmitter is damaged, bring it to a local mechanic for inspection and repair.
One of the main reasons that a key fob ceases functioning is because the batteries are dying. Key fob batteries generally last between three and five years, which is why it's a good idea buy new batteries on a regular basis.
Most people can replace the battery inside the case of a key fob in their home. All you need is a screwdriver with a flat head to pry off the case and then you can replace the battery with a new one. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells which are available in a majority of auto parts stores.
Another reason your key fob may not be responding is because of a defective receiver. This can be a frustrating issue, because it usually happens when you're driving. If your key fob doesn't appear to be receiving a signal try putting it in the driver's side of the door lock.
A damaged receiver can also cause your key fob to behave in a strange manner, for example, switching off or locking the vehicle whenever you press one of its buttons. If you have a spare key fob, try using it to see if it can respond to the vehicle's commands. Contact your dealer if don't have an extra keyfob. In some instances the new-car dealership might be able to provide the replacement at no cost in the event that the current fob is in warranty.
Key fob receiver damaged
While key fobs are great convenience tools that let us lock or unlock our automobiles, they are vulnerable to a myriad of issues. If your remote fob in your car isn't working properly, it may be time to contact a locksmith or your auto dealer for assistance. Fortunately, many common key fob issues are easily resolved without having to shell out for a costly replacement. Here are the five most frequent reasons your key fob might not be responding
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
Over time, a car's key fob receiver and transmitter may become out of sync with each and the other. To fix this issue you'll need to sync your key fob and receiver following the reprogramming directions for your car. These instructions are available in the owner's manual, or contact your dealer in person for assistance.
If the re-programming of your key fob fails to fix the issue, it could be a different cause of damage or interference to the key fob or its receiver. Luckily, this issue is easy to fix by opening the key fob to take a closer view of the inside. Find indications of damage, such as cracks in the circuit board, teeny electronic components that aren't completely connected to the circuit board or bent or oxidized battery contacts. If you find any of these, you can repair your key fob by replacing the damaged components.
If you're looking to replace or repair your key fob, the ideal solution will depend on the source of the problem and how much you value convenience and price. If your key fob is damaged or has been dropped, it may be more affordable to replace it professionally. In any event, make certain to take care of your key fob so it can continue to provide you with years of trouble-free operation. By regularly cleaning it and avoiding exposing it to extreme temperatures or electromagnetic fields you can ensure that it will last for as long as possible. Additionally, by selecting a professional with plenty of experience with your specific car's model and make you can be sure that your key fob will perform exactly as you intended it to.