Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs take a beating. Depending on how they're stored and how often they're knocked around, their buttons may be damaged or stuck.

The majority of key fob issues are easy to fix. However, some issues are more serious and will require professional help. This is where locksmiths help.

Dead Fob Battery

The key fobs for cars are quite intelligent, but that does not mean they won't sometimes become stuck in the "not responding zone". When this happens, it's time to replace the battery. It's not a solution because there could be an issue with one of the terminals on the battery connector.

The car manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they often include a spare key mechanical inside the fob for just this kind of emergency. To access this, locate the small release switch or latch located behind the fob (check the user manual for specifics). By pressing this, you will be able to open the fob and access a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.

It is also necessary to be nearer to your car to lock and unlock it. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter weakens as its battery ages and limits the range of operation.

Replacing the battery is easy and relatively inexpensive. You'll need the button-cell battery (which looks like an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the same direction as the old one (the positive side facing up towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its lock/unlock and start functions to ensure that the battery was installed correctly.

Certain key fobs may be difficult to open but you should be able to do it by placing the latch, switch or screw at the back of the fob and then prying it open. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to damage it! You can also take the fob to a professional in case you're not comfortable making it your own. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs at a minimal cost because it's an everyday repair service. Some dealers may even perform the swap for free, based on the model and year of your car.

Fob Is Not Working

The first thing you need to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will solve the issue. If your device is not functioning after a battery change, it could be due damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.

Damage can happen to your car's key fob due to a variety of reasons including physical trauma, exposure to water or a corroded circuit board. These issues can prevent your key from communicating with the vehicle's receiver and prevent your car's doors or ignition from locking or starting. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll need an expert to repair or replace the component or the entire device.

The buttons on your keychain might have worn out due to repeated use. The rubber may wear out, making the buttons less 'clicky' or springy. They can also stop registering your presses. You can try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the issue however, it's best to take the fob to be professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.

It is also important to confirm that the new battery you're using is a perfect match to your fob. You can find a list online or in most hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on your fob for further details. A battery that mobile key repair isn't an ideal match could be unable to transmit powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the fob's internal components.

In rare cases the issue could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if there is). If the physical key you have isn't able to open or start your car, have a mechanic inspect the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine whether they're functioning properly.

Fob Is Damaged

A key fob is made up of numerous components that function together and a single malfunction can cause others to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a cause obvious like a damaged or cracked case, or a malfunctioning internal component. It's also essential to examine other parts of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether they're working as expected.

If the key fob is damaged, it's best to find a replacement at your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix it. The fob may require reprogramming to the car and this cannot be done at home, and requires specialized equipment to do this.

Over time the contacts on buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is more common when you drop the fob or leave it outside in hot weather.

The internal wiring of a key fob may be worn out over time. It can lead to the button not working when pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. It could also result in the vehicle not being able start or unlock when the fob has been used.

Most key fobs come with the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can restore a keyfob to its original function. It's an excellent idea for you to do it regularly to prevent dirt from damaging the inside.

A damaged battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not turn on or work. Many mechanics and car dealers can replace the batteries quickly however, if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can buy a battery at a hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If you find any of these problems it is recommended to consult an auto locksmith or a dealer to obtain a replacement key fob and assistance in programming it for your vehicle.

Fob Is Not Programming

The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and open the doors of your vehicle. They can also be a source of frustration when they stop working or seem to work intermittently. In some cases the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery however, in other instances, it could involve an intricate repair. The first step is determining the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.

The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your car is cut off. This connection can be restored without the need for costly key fob repair.

If the key fob not sending a clear signal, other issues could occur. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either situation, try to resync the key to your vehicle. You can do this by following the instructions that come with the key fob. It is also recommended to carry a spare car key in case the primary key fails.

The fob might not receive a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due to weak batteries in the car, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. By using a remote tester you can test the fob and determine if it's the problem. If the tester doesn't illuminate when one of the buttons is pressing, the battery may need to be replaced or the fob could be broken.

The immobilizer in your car could hinder a fob from sending out a strong signal. This can occur if your key fob hasn't been programmed correctly, or if there's a software issue.

If you can't fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to repair it, you need to purchase the new one. There are low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some are even delivered to your door.