How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we test them numerous times keys aren't indestructible. They can break down in a variety of ways.
Other issues could be more important than an unresponsive battery. Fortunately, the majority of them can be resolved with a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent 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 need it.
The LED light will generally stop glowing when the battery in the car key fob is running low. The fob may also stop working at the same distance it was previously working to. In this scenario it might be necessary to re-program the key fob or replace it completely.
Fortunately replacing a car key fob battery is a simple task. Find out the type of battery that is used. The type of battery should be embossed in the side of your key fob. Google can help you when you're not sure. Once you've identified the kind of battery you want and the key fob, you can open it at the junction. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail, to break the two halves. Then, take out the old battery and put an alternative one in its place. Make sure you insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers aren't aware that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their car and the buttons no longer work. This can be fixed by reprogramming your fob. However it could be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and see if they are able to jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you've tried both solutions and your vehicle still won't start, it's time to call an expert. A qualified technician can determine if your car's computer system needs reprogramming or the fob simply requires a replacement battery. They can also suggest an auto shop to replace the key fob. Sometimes, however, a new fob may be the best option.
how to repair car key lock fobs aren't impervious to destruction, but it can be able to withstand a variety of physical damage. The battery, the circuit board and buttons will all experience their fair amount of wear and tear with time, so it's important to be vigilant and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob operating well.
Check that the battery is still working on your key fob. If it is then replace the battery and determine if this fixes the issue. If not, you may have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms that allow you to open them up and you may harm your device if you try to pull it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, but it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is a damaged or corrupted circuit board on the key fob. This can be caused by various factors, such as dirt or moisture that gets into the battery compartment, software issues or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob has stopped functioning, you might be interested in having it reprogrammed. This can be done by a locksmith that specializes in this work.
Radio interference is also a possibility. This can happen if there are other wireless devices transmitting on the same frequency as your key fob, for instance a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case, check with the other manufacturers of your device to make sure that your key fob's signal isn't affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob has an issue with the switch or another electrical component that should be replaced. This is a harder fix, but you can find guides online that show you how to do it yourself. It is important to be cautious when doing this because the circuit boards in your key fob are tiny and easily break when handled rough. If you're doing this yourself, be sure to use an SMT switch of good quality and solder the switch in place in a proper manner.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs can suffer quite a bit of wear and tear. They are more prone to being lost and spend a significant amount of time in your pocket or purse. Sometimes, this jostling can cause the buttons to wear out or stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the issue.
Modern key fobs come with sensors that can detect when they've been pressed. They're designed to detect this to reduce the likelihood of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when you press them, they're worn out and should be replaced.
Key fobs also have a circuit board inside them that sends signals to the car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, and commands to start the engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then your key fob may not allow you to unlock your car or start the engine. This type of damage is typically caused by blunt force or water.
If you have to press the buttons harder than usual to make them function, then your key fob buttons are getting worn out. The fob may also stop sending a signal to your car or have a lower range.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to use your key fob to access your vehicle. They can determine if your key fob is damaged or your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of key fob issues in cars aren't too serious or complex. The best way to avoid being taken by surprise by an unresponsive key fob is to have a spare in your possession at all times. You'll never be caught in the middle due to a malfunctioning or lost key. If you lose your spare key, an expert locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They'll also be able to repair any internal damage that has occurred on your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of your key fob does more than just protect the buttons and battery. It also houses the circuit board responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you press a button on your key fob. The circuit board relays the signal from your key fob to your car.
If the board is damaged or dead your key fob will not be able to operate. Sometimes a dead key fob will just need to be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or the dealership can help you with.
Batteries could be the cause of your key fob not working. The battery can be replaced at your home. The positive side is that you can find a replacement battery online or at your local auto parts store since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
There are many ways to open a key fob to get inside, based on the type. A quick search online should identify the type of key fob yours is and the type of battery it takes. From there, you can purchase an alternative and then simply pop the old one out and the new one in.
The main concern when you repair a broken car key fob is that you don't want to cause damage to the circuit board or buttons further. Trying to pry apart the key fob using a hard edge like a screwdriver can damage the case or even damage the plastic. Fortunately, a replacement case is cheap and you can get an entire fob with the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob isn't functioning, check to see if the batteries are dead or if the circuit board has become damaged. If that's not the case, a professional will repair it quickly and inexpensively. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty of any replacement or used fobs that you purchase on the internet.