How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we test them many a times, key fobs are not indestructible. car key fob repair are able to be destroyed in a variety of ways.
Other issues can be more serious than the battery being dead. Luckily, most of these issues can be solved by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is probably the most common reason why the car key fob stop working. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed or humid temperatures or even water. It's a good idea to keep an additional fob battery in your wallet in case.
The LED light will usually cease to blink when the battery in your car key fob is low. It is also possible that the fob won't work from the same distance it did in the past. In this case it could be necessary to reprogram the key fob or even replace it entirely.
Fortunately the replacement of the car key fob battery is easy. Find out the type of battery used. The type should be embossed on the side of the fob. If you're not sure then a quick Google search will help. Open the key fob along the seam once you've identified the type of battery. You will need to use a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to break the two halves. Take the old battery out, and replace it with a brand new one. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up toward the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers may not be aware the fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons do not respond. This can be corrected by reprogramming the fob. However, it can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and ask them to jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you've tried both solutions but your vehicle doesn't turn on, it's time to contact a professional. A certified technician can determine if the vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob needs a new battery. They can also recommend an auto repair shop that can replace your key fob. Sometimes an entirely new fob may be the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
The key fob isn't indestructible, but it is able to be able to withstand a variety of physical harm. Battery, circuit board and buttons are all subject to wear and tear. It is important to take care of these components to ensure that your key fob is in good condition.
Make sure that the battery still working on your key fob. Replace the battery to see if it fixes your problem. If not, you'll require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It can be difficult to open some key fobs because they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You can damage your fob by trying to take it apart. You can buy a tool to open your key fob. However, you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is a damaged or faulty circuit board inside the key fob. This can be caused by many things, such as moisture or dirt that gets into the battery compartment, software issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob has stopped working completely, you should consider having it reprogrammed by a locksmith that specializes in this kind of work.
Radio interference is another possible cause. This can happen if there are other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency as your key fob, such a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case you must contact the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
There may be a need to replace a switch or other electrical component inside your key fob. key repairs can find online guides that will help you fix this yourself. Be careful, however, as the circuit board inside your key fob is small and is prone to breaking if handled roughly. If you're doing it yourself, be sure to make use of an SMT switch of good quality and solder the switch in place correctly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are subject to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are prone to being dropped and are frequently being tossed around in your pocket or purse. The constant jostling can cause the buttons to wear out or become stuck. In this case it's possible that a simple adjustment will be all that's needed to get it working again.
Modern key fobs come with sensors that detect when they've been hit. They're designed to do this because they can help lower the risk of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when pressed, they are damaged and should be replaced.
The circuit board in the key fob also transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well instructions 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 start the engine. This type of damage is usually caused by blunt force or water.
You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are wearing down If you're finding yourself pressing them harder than usual to get them to work. Additionally, your fob may cease transmitting signals to the car or have a lower range than it did before.
If you're unable to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, you need to call a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able determine whether 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 ensure you don't get surprised by a malfunctioning key fob is to have a spare in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're never left stranded somewhere due to a lost or malfunctioning 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 may have occurred on your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of your key fob is more than just a place to store the buttons and battery. It also houses the circuit board responsible for all the electrical magic when you press the button on your key fob. This 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. A dead key fob may require reprogramming by a local auto locksmith, or dealer.
Batteries may be the cause your key fob's battery not working. This is a quick solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. The positive side is that you can find an alternative battery online or at your local auto parts store since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
Depending on the kind of key fob you have, there are a variety of ways to open it and gain access to the inside. A quick internet search should identify the type of key fob yours is and the type of battery it takes. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
The main concern when you repair an old car key fob is that you don't want to cause damage to the circuit board or buttons any further. When you try to break a key fob with an edge that is sharp like a screwdriver can cause damage to the case or crack the plastic. Fortunately, a replacement case is inexpensive and you can buy the entire fob and the electronics from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob does not work, you should check if you've damaged the circuit board or batteries. If this isn't the situation, a professional could repair it for you quickly and cheaply. Otherwise, it might be the time to purchase a replacement. Make sure you check the warranty on any fob replacement or used that you purchase online.