How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we use them a lot keys are not impervious to destruction. In fact, they are able to be destroyed in a variety of ways.
The most frequent issue is the battery being dead, other issues can be much more serious. Fortunately, many of them can be resolved by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent cause of the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries are prone to draining quickly, particularly if they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, or water. It is a good idea to keep an extra fob battery in your wallet just in case.
The LED light will usually stop glowing when the battery in the car key fob is low. The fob might be unable to function from the same distance that it used to. In this scenario, it may be necessary to re-program the key fob or even replace it entirely.
Fortunately, replacing the car key fob battery is simple. Find out the type of battery that is used. The type should be engraved on the side of the fob. Google can assist you in case you're unsure. Once you have found the kind of battery you want and the key fob, you can open it at the seam. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or even your fingernail to split the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers aren't aware that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their car and the buttons don't work anymore. In some cases this issue can be resolved by reprogramming the fob, but that can be costly and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to see whether they can restart your car and get it back on the road.
If you've tried both solutions and your vehicle still won't start, it's the right time to speak with an expert. A trained technician will be able to determine whether your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob needs a replacement battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your fob's key. In the end it is not always the case that a new fob is the most effective solution.
Circuit Board Damage
The key fob isn't indestructible, but it can withstand a lot of physical damage. The battery, circuit board and buttons will all experience their fair share of wear and tear with time and it's crucial to be aware and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob working well.
Make sure that the battery still working on your key fob. If it is, replace the battery and see if that fixes your issue. If this doesn't work, you might need to open the fob and clean the contact surfaces. It isn't easy to open some key fobs due to the fact that they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You could damage your fob by trying to force it apart. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, however you must always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.
Another issue that is common is a damaged or faulty circuit board on the key fob. This can be caused by various factors like dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob has stopped working completely, you should consider having it reprogrammed by a locksmith that specializes in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. This could happen if there are other wireless devices transmitting on the same frequency as your key fob, like a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case, you should contact the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.
You may also need to replace a switch or other electrical component inside your key fob. This is a harder fix however, you can find online guides that will show you how to do it yourself. Be cautious when doing this because the circuit boards inside your key fob are tiny and are susceptible to breaking in the event of rough handling. If you're doing this yourself, make sure to make use of an SMT switch of good quality and solder the switch in place correctly.
Out Buttons Out Buttons
Car key fobs can get quite a bit of wear and tear. They're prone to being dropped and often are frequently being tossed around in your pocket or purse. Sometimes, this jolting can cause buttons to wear out or snagged. If this happens it's possible that a simple adjustment will be all that's needed to make it work again.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that can detect when they have been press. They're designed to do this because they can help lower the risk of someone stealing your car. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding when pushed, that's an indication that they're worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also contain an internal circuit board that transmits signals to the car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands and instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then your key fob may not allow you to unlock your car or even start the engine. Generally, 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 wearing out when you press more than normal to get them to work. Your fob could be unable to send an alert to your car or have a lower range.
If you're unable unlock your key fob, unlock or start your car, it's important to find an emergency locksmith in your area. They can tell if the key fob is damaged or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, most car key fob problems aren't serious or complicated. The best way to avoid being taken by surprise by an unresponsive key fob is to have an extra in your pocket at all times. You won't be left stranded because of an issue with your key or a lost one. Of course, if you do happen to lose your car key spare A locksmith can change the key so that it works with the ignition of your car. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that has occurred on the key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob does more than protect the batteries and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that executes all the electrical magic whenever you press a key fob button. The circuit 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.
Another reason why your key fob might not be functioning is that the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at home. You can get a replacement battery at your local auto parts shop or on the internet. These batteries are not just for key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob, there are different ways to open it up and access the insides. A quick internet search should reveal what kind of key fob you have and the type of battery it takes. From there, you can purchase a replacement and easily pop the old one out and put the new one in.
The main concern when you repair the broken car key fob is that you don't want to harm the circuit board or buttons any further. If repair car key try to pry away the key fob with an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it can crack the plastic or break the case. A replacement case is inexpensive and you can find an entire fob, including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
If your key fob isn't functioning Check to see if the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the situation, a professional could repair it for you quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Make sure you check for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you buy online.