How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we test them numerous times keys are not indestructible. In fact, they are able to break down in many different ways.
Other issues can be more important than a dead battery. Most of problems can be fixed by a quick fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is likely the most common reason why the car key fob stops functioning. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed to hot or humid temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
The LED light will usually stop glowing when the battery in your car key fob is low. It's also possible that the fob will no longer work from the same distance as it did in the past. In this case the key fob could require reprogramming or replaced entirely.
Fortunately car remote key repair of the car key fob battery is a simple task. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. Google can help you in case you're unsure. Once you've identified the kind of battery you want and the key fob, you can open it at the junction. You'll need a small flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry the two halves apart. Remove the old battery and replace it with a brand new one. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that their fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons don't respond. In some cases, this can be solved by reprogramming the fob, however, this can be expensive 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 but your vehicle doesn't start, it's time to speak with a professional. A certified technician will be able to determine if the vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob needs an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your key fob. In the end sometimes, a brand new fob is the most effective solution.
Circuit Board Damage
Key fobs can withstand a lot of physical abuse and is not impervious to destruction. The battery, 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 aware and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob working efficiently.
The most straightforward thing to do is to make sure the battery in the key fob isn't dying. Replace the battery to see if it solves your issue. If this doesn't work, you might need to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. This can be difficult because some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them and you may damage your fob if you try to pull it apart. You can buy a tool to open your key fob. But, you must adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer to avoid damaging the.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is a damaged or faulty circuit board inside the key fob. It can be caused by various factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob is not working, you may think about getting it reprogrammed. This can be done by a locksmith who is skilled in this kind of work.
Radio interference is a different possibility. This can happen if there are other wireless devices operating at the same frequency as your key fob, for instance a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case, you should contact the manufacturer of the other device to ensure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
You may also need to replace a switch or other electrical component inside your key fob. This is a more difficult fix however, you can find guides online that explain how to do it yourself. It is important to be cautious when doing this because the circuit boards that are inside your key fob are small and are susceptible to breaking in the event of rough handling. If you're doing this yourself, make sure to use a high quality SMT switch and then solder it in place correctly.
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 pocket or purse. Sometimes, this can cause the buttons to become worn out or snagged. A simple adjustment can solve the problem.
Most modern key fobs have sensors on them that detect if they've been pressed. This is because they lower the chances of someone stealing your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when pressed, they are worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also contain an internal circuit board that sends signals to the car. Those signals include commands to unlock and lock and instructions to start your engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, then your key fob may not allow you to unlock or start your engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force, or something scratching the circuit board.
If you have to press the buttons harder than usual to activate them If this is the case, then your key fob's buttons are getting worn out. In addition, your fob may stop transmitting a signal to the car or it'll have less range than it did prior to.
If you're unable to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, you need to find a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob is damaged or if your ignition cylinder has worn down.
Luckily, most car key fob issues aren't a major or difficult issue. Keep an extra key fob in your vehicle always in case you end up being thrown off by a malfunctioning key. You'll never be caught in the middle due to a malfunctioning or lost key. If you have lost your spare key, a professional locksmith can reset it to work with your vehicle's engine. They can also fix any internal damage to the key fob.
Broken Case
A key fob's case is more than just a place to store the battery and buttons. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for doing all of the electrical magic when you press a button on your key fob. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob and transmits it to your car.
If the board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to function. Sometimes a dead key fob may need to be reprogrammed which is something that your local auto locksmith or the dealership can help you with.
Another reason why your key fob may not be functioning is that the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The positive side is that you can locate a replacement battery on the internet or at your local auto parts shop since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are several ways to open the key fob and go inside it, depending on the kind. You can determine what kind of battery your key fob uses by conducting a quick internet search. From there, you can buy an alternative and then simply pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
The biggest concern when repairing an old car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. When you try to break the key fob using an edge that is sharp like a screwdriver could cause damage to the case or damage the plastic. Luckily, a replacement case is inexpensive and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob doesn't work, check to see if the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the case, a professional will repair it quickly and cheaply. If not, it might be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty on any fob replacement or used that you purchase online.