How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we test them a lot, key fobs are not indestructible. In fact, they can break down in a variety of ways.
The most frequent issue is an unresponsive battery however, other issues could be more serious. Fortunately, many of these can be fixed by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the main cause of a key fob that is not working. Fob batteries drain quickly, particularly if they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
It is easy to tell when the battery in your car key fob is running low because the LED light will stop glowing. It's also possible that your key fob won't work from the same distance it used to. In this scenario the key fob might need to be programmed again or replaced altogether.
Fortunately the replacement of a car key fob battery is simple. First, determine what kind of battery is being used. The type of battery you are using should be embossed in the side of your key fob. If you are not sure it is, an easy Google search will be helpful. Unlock the key fob along the seam once you have identified the battery type. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry apart the two halves. Take the old battery out, and replace it with a new one. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up toward the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers don't realize that their fob has gone out of service until they lock or unlock their car and the buttons no longer work. This can be fixed by reprogramming your fob. However it can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and see if they can jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you have tried all three of these methods and your car still won't start, then it's time to call a professional. A qualified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires changing its programming, or if the fob is only in need of replacement batteries. They can also recommend an auto repair shop that can replace your key fob. Sometimes it is possible that a new fob could be the best option.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob is able to withstand many physical abuses and isn't indestructible. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all subject to wear and tear. It is essential to take care of these parts to ensure your key fob remains in good condition.
Make sure that the battery still working in your key fob. If it is then replace the battery and determine if this fixes the problem. If not, you might require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge since some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them up and you could damage your fob if you attempt to break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, but you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or damaged key fob circuit board is a frequent issue. It can be caused by various factors, including dirt or moisture entering the battery compartment. Software issues or even an accident firmware update could also cause this. If your key fob isn't working completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed with locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. This could happen in the event that you have other wireless devices around that transmit at the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, consult with other device manufacturers to make sure that your key fob isn't being affected by their signals.
There may be a need to replace a switch or other electrical component of your key fob. This is a more difficult fix however, there are guides online that explain how to do it yourself. Be careful to be careful, however, since the circuit board in the key fob is tiny and can easily break if handled with care. If you're doing this yourself, make sure to use an SMT switch of good quality and solder the switch in place in a proper manner.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs can suffer a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are prone to being dropped and often spend a lot of time being tossed around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause buttons to wear out or snagged. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Most modern key fobs come with sensors on them that can detect if they've been pressed. They're designed to do this to decrease the chance of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when you press them, they're worn out and need to be replaced.
remote car key repairs inside the key fob transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged, the key fob you have may not be able to unlock your vehicle or start the engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force, or something scratching the circuit board.
If you're forced to press the buttons more than usual in order to activate them the key fob buttons are wearing out. The fob may not be sending signals to your car or have a smaller range.
Contact a locksmith right away when you're unable to use your key fob to access your car. They can determine if the key fob is damaged or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of car keyfob issues aren't very complicated or even serious. The best way to avoid getting surprised by an issue with your key fob is to have an extra key in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're never stuck in a bind because of the loss or malfunction of your key. If you lose your spare key a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your vehicle's engine. They can also fix any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
A key fob's case does more than just protect the battery and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic every time you press the key fob button. The board transmits the signal from your key fob to your car.
The key fob won't function if the board is damaged. A key fob that is dead may only need to be reprogrammed by your local auto locksmith, or dealership.
Another reason your key fob might not be working is because the batteries are dead. This is a quick fix that can be accomplished at home by replacing the battery. The good news is that you can find an alternative battery online or at your local auto parts shop since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are several ways to open a key fob and get inside it, depending on the type. A quick search online should reveal what kind of key fob yours is and the type of battery it takes. You can then purchase a new one, take the old one out, and then put the new one in.
The biggest concern when repairing the broken car key fob is that you don't want to harm the circuit board or buttons any further. When you try to break the key fob using an edge that is sharp like screwdrivers can damage the case or even scratch the plastic. Fortunately, a replacement case is inexpensive and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob won't function, make sure you've damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this isn't the case, you can have it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. If not, it might be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty of any replacement or used fobs that you purchase online.