How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs are susceptible to damage even if we utilize them frequently. They can break down in different ways.
Other issues can be more serious than the battery being dead. Luckily, most of these issues can be solved by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is probably the most frequent reason the car key fob stops working. Fob batteries are prone to draining quickly, especially if they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. It is a good idea to keep an extra fob battery in your wallet in case.
The LED light will typically stop blinking when the battery in your car key fob is running low. The key fob could also stop working at the same distance it used to. In this instance the key fob might need to be reprogrammed or replaced completely.
It is easy to replace the battery in a car keyfob. First, find out what type of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. If you are not sure, an easy Google search will help. Open the key fob along the seam once you've identified the type of battery. You will need to use a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to split the two halves. Then, remove the old battery and insert the new one in its place. Place the new battery in such a way that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that the fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons aren't responding. In some cases this issue can be resolved by reprogramming the fob, however, it can be costly and time-consuming. 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 have tried all of these options but your car won't start and you're not sure why, it's time to call a professional. A trained technician can tell if your car's computer needs reprogramming, or if the fob is only in need of an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend an auto repair shop that can replace your key fob. In the end sometimes, a brand new fob is the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
The key fob isn't indestructible, but it is able to withstand a lot of physical harm. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these components to keep your key fob in good condition.
The easiest thing to check is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't depleted. If it is then replace the battery and see if that fixes your problem. If not, you'll require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be tricky because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms that allow you to unlock them and you may harm your device if you try to force it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however it is recommended to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.
Another issue that is common is a damaged or faulty circuit board in the key fob. It can be caused by a number of things, such as dirt or moisture that gets into the battery compartment, software issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob isn't functioning completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed with an expert locksmith who specializes in this kind of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen in the event that you have other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency, like radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, you should get in touch with the manufacturer of the other device to ensure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob may have an unreliable switch or electrical component that must be replaced. This is a more difficult fix however, you can find guides online that show you how to do it yourself. You should be careful to be careful, however, since the circuit board that is inside the key fob is tiny and can easily break when handled rough. If you're doing it yourself, ensure you use an SMT switch that is of high-quality and then solder the switch into place correctly.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are subject to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are more prone to being dropped and spend a lot time being jostled in your purse or pocket. The constant jostling can cause the buttons to wear out or become stuck. If this happens an easy adjustment could be all it takes to get it working again.
Modern key fobs come with sensors that are able to detect when they have been press. This is because they reduce the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding when pushed, that's an indication that they're worn out and require to be replaced.
Key fobs also contain an internal circuit board that transmits signals to the car. The signals include commands to unlock and lock and also commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged then your key fob might not be able to unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt or a scratch on the circuit board.
You'll be able to tell that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating if you find yourself pressing more than usual to get them to function. In addition the fob might stop sending a signal to the car, or have less range than it did prior to.
Contact a locksmith right away if you are not able to use the key fob to access your car. They'll be able determine whether the key fob itself is damaged or your ignition cylinder has worn out.
Luckily, most car key fob issues aren't a major or difficult issue. Keep a spare key fob in your vehicle always in case you end up being surprised by a malfunctioning one. You'll never be caught in the middle due to a malfunctioning or lost key. If you do happen to lose your spare car key, a locksmith can help change the key so that it works with the ignition of your car. They can also repair any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob does more than protect the buttons and batteries. It also houses the circuit board responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you hit a button on your key fob. This board receives the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.
The key fob won't work if the board is damaged. A dead key fob may require reprogramming by a local auto locksmith, or dealer.
remote car key repairs may not be working is because the batteries are dead. This is a simple solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. The good thing is that you can get an alternative battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob you have, there are different ways to open it up and access the insides. A quick search on the internet will identify the type of key fob you have and the type of battery it uses. You can then purchase a new one, take the old one out and then put the new one in.
When fixing a damaged key fob, the primary concern is not to destroy the circuit or buttons more. If you attempt to remove a key fob with a sharp edge, such as screwdrivers can break the case or scratch the plastic. A replacement case isn't much and you can buy the entire fob including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
So, if your key fob doesn't work look into whether the batteries are dead or if the circuit board has been damaged. If that's not the case, a professional can fix it quickly and cost-effectively. In the event that it isn't, it's time to invest in a replacement. Just be sure to check for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you purchase online.