How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs can be damaged, even if we use them frequently. In fact, they can be destroyed in a variety of ways.
While the most common issue is the battery being dead however, other issues could be much more serious. Fortunately, many of them can be resolved by a simple DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a key fob that is not working. Fob batteries are prone to draining quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity or water. It's a good idea keep an extra fob battery in your wallet just in case.
It is easy to tell when the battery in your car key fob is running low because the light on the LED will stop glowing. The key fob could also stop working from the same distance it used to. In this case the key fob could require reprogramming or replaced altogether.
It is simple to replace the battery in a car keyfob. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is used. The type of battery you are using should be embossed in the side of your key fob. Google can help if you're not sure. Once you've found the type of battery and the key fob, you can open it near the seam. Use a flathead screwdriver, or even your fingernail to pry apart 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 upwards towards the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers may not be aware their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their car and the buttons do not respond. This can be corrected by reprogramming your fob. However it could be costly and time-consuming. You can also contact roadside assistance to find out whether they can start your vehicle and get it back on the road.
If you've tried every solution and your car still doesn't turn on, it's time to call an expert. A qualified technician can determine if the car's computer system needs to be reprogrammed or if the fob needs a new battery. They will also suggest a reputable auto repair shop to replace your fob's key. In the end, though, sometimes a brand new fob is the most effective solution.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob can take a lot of physical abuse and isn't indestructible. Battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is important to take care of these parts to keep your key fob in good condition.
Make a fantastic read that the battery still working in your key fob. If it is then replace the battery and determine if this fixes the problem. If this doesn't work, you may need to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. It is sometimes difficult to open some key fobs due to the fact that they don't have an easy release mechanism. You can cause damage to your fob by trying take it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however you must always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another frequent issue. This can be caused by numerous factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or an accident firmware update could be the cause of this. If your key fob has stopped working completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed with locksmiths who specialize in this kind of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. This could happen if there are other wireless devices transmitting at the same frequency as your key fob, like radar detectors, home security systems. If this is the situation you need to contact the other device manufacturer to make sure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob may have an unreliable switch or electrical component that needs to be replaced. This is a harder fix however, there are guides online that show you how to fix it yourself. Be cautious when doing this, though because the circuit boards that are inside your key fob are tiny and are susceptible to breaking in the event of rough handling. If you do this yourself, make certain to use a top quality SMT switch and then solder it in place correctly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs can suffer quite a bit of wear and tear. They are susceptible to being lost and spend a significant amount of time being jostled in your pocket or purse. The constant jostling can cause the buttons to wear down or become stuck. In this case it's possible that a simple adjustment will be all it takes to get it working again.
Most modern key fobs have sensors on them that tell if they've been pressed. This is due to the fact that they decrease the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when you press them, they're worn out and should be replaced.
The circuit board that is in the key fob transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well as commands to start the engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged, 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, blunt force, or something scratching the circuit board.
You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are wearing down when you press the buttons more than normal to get them to work. The fob may be unable to send signals to your car or have a lower range.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are not able to use your key fob to access your car. They can determine if your key fob is damaged or the cylinder in your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, most car keyfob problems aren't complicated or serious. The best way to avoid being caught off guard by an issue with your key fob is to have a spare in your possession at all times. You'll never be stranded due to an unresponsive 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 repair 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 does all the electrical magic when you press the button on your key fob. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.
Your key fob will not function if the board is damaged. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead can be reprogrammed, which is something that your local auto locksmith or the dealership can assist you with.
Batteries could be the reason of your key fob not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The good thing is that you can locate a replacement battery on the internet or at a local auto parts store, since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are several ways to open up a key fob to get inside it, based on the kind. A quick internet search should show you which type of key fob you have and what kind of battery it requires. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out and the new one in.
If you are repairing a damaged key fob, the primary concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons more. If you try to pry away the key fob with the screwdriver or another sharp edge, it could break the plastic or damage the case. A replacement case is inexpensive and you can purchase an entire fob, including the electronic components on 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 will fix it quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Just be sure to check for a warranty on any used or replacement fobs you purchase on the internet.