How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs are susceptible to damage even if we use them frequently. They can be destroyed in different ways.
Other issues can be more grave than an unresponsive battery. Many of these issues can be resolved with a simple fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the main reason for a key fob that is not working. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, particularly if they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. It is a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet in case.
The LED light will generally cease to blink when the battery in the car key fob is running low. It is also possible that the fob won't work at the same distance it did in the past. In this scenario the key fob could require reprogramming or replaced entirely.
Fortunately the replacement of a car key fob battery is easy. Find out the kind of battery used. The type of battery you are using should be engraved on the back of your key fob. If you're not sure then doing a quick Google search will be helpful. Open the key fob along the seam once you've identified the battery type. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail to break the two halves. Remove the old battery and replace it with a brand new one. Make sure you insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing towards the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their car and the buttons don't respond. This can be corrected by reprogramming your fob. However, it can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and see if they are able to jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you've tried every solution and your car still doesn't turn on, it's time to contact a professional. A certified technician will be able to determine whether your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob requires a replacement battery. They may also recommend an auto repair shop that can replace your key fob. Sometimes, however, a new fob could be the best option.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob is able to withstand many physical abuses and isn't indestructible. The battery, the circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair amount of wear and tear over the course of time and it's crucial to be on guard and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob functioning well.
Check that the battery is still working on your key fob. Replace the battery to see if it solves your issue. If not, you might need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms to open them and you may end up damaging your key fob if attempt to break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, but it is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or corrupted key fob circuit board is a frequent issue. This can be caused by various factors like dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment, software issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob isn't functioning completely, you should consider having it reprogrammed by locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.
check out this site is also a possibility. It could happen if you have other wireless devices around that transmit at the same frequency, like radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case you must contact the other device manufacturer to make sure 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. There are online guides that show you how to fix this yourself. It is important to be cautious when doing this, though because the circuit boards inside the key fob are tiny and are susceptible to breaking when handled rough. If you're doing it yourself, be sure to use an SMT switch that is of high-quality and put the switch in place in a proper manner.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are subject to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are susceptible to being lost and spend a significant amount of time being tossed around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jolting can cause the buttons to become worn out or become stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Most modern key fobs have sensors on them that can detect if they've been pressed. They're made to do this because they can help decrease the chance of thieves stealing your car. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding when you press them this is a sign that they're worn out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board in the key fob also sends signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well as commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside is damaged, then your key fob might not be able to unlock or start your engine. This type of damage is usually caused by blunt force or water.
If you're having to press the buttons harder than normal to get them to function the key fob buttons are getting worn out. Additionally, your fob may stop transmitting a signal to the car, or have a lower range than it did before.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are not able to use your key fob to access your vehicle. They can tell if the key fob is damaged or the cylinder of your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of key fob issues in cars aren't too serious or complex. The best way to avoid being caught off guard by an issue with your key fob is to keep an extra in your pocket at all times. You'll never be caught in the middle due to an issue with your key or a lost one. If you lose your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your vehicle's engine. They'll also be able to fix any internal damage that may have occurred to the key fob.
Broken Case
A key fob's case provides more than just protection for the buttons and battery. The case also houses the circuitry that executes all the electrical magic every time you press the key fob button. The board transmits the signal from your key fob to your car.
Your key fob will not function if the board is damaged. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead can be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or the dealership can help you with.
Another reason your key fob may not be working is because the batteries are dying. The battery can be replaced at your home. The positive side is that you can find the replacement battery on the internet or at a local auto parts store since the batteries aren't limited to key fobs.
There are many ways to open up a key fob to get inside it, depending on the kind. You can determine what kind of battery your key fob uses by doing a quick online search. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out and put the new one in.
When fixing a damaged key fob, the most important concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons in any way. If you attempt to pry away the key fob with a screwdriver or other hard edge, it can crack the plastic or damage the case. Luckily, a replacement case is inexpensive and you can buy the entire fob and the electronics from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
So, if your key fob isn't working look into whether the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the case, a professional can repair it quickly and inexpensively. In the event that it isn't, it's time to invest in an upgrade. Make sure you check the warranty of any replacement or used fobs that you purchase online.