Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
The loss of your key fob down is an unpleasant situation. Luckily, most fob problems aren't major or difficult and can be solved at home or by an auto locksmith close to you.
The first step is to check the fob's keypad for physical damage as well as an unresponsive battery. Then, you can reset the fob according to the instructions contained in your owner's manual.
Dead Key Fob Battery
With a key fob you can unlock and start your vehicle without having to fiddle around with your keys. Some models even unlock doors, hatchbacks and trunks with the push of the button. While a dead key fob battery might seem like a major inconvenience, it's actually one of the easiest problems to solve. Most car owners know that they can go to a dealership or repair shop for assistance but did you know that you could also try to fix your own key fob at home?
The first thing you'll require is a new, clean CR2032 battery. You can buy them in a multipack at most hardware stores. Use a flathead screwdriver or watch to push the case open. Once you've opened the first gap then you can employ your pry tool to further open the case. Be gentle in order not to harm the fob or its circuit board.
The new battery should be placed under the tabs that are marked with yellow arrows on this photo. Make sure that it is between the two smaller tabs indicated by green arrows. After the new battery is in place, close your key fob and test it. If the key fob doesn't function, you may need to contact an expert for more detailed troubleshooting.
In rare cases replacing the battery on a key fob can still leave you with a nonfunctional device. In this case there's probably a problem with the vehicle or the fob. Keep a spare keyfob handy to ensure you're ready in the event that the battery fails, or if another problem arises.
In addition to battery replacement, you can ask a professional to inspect and make any other key fob repairs. They can inspect for damaged buttons as well as contacts and other parts. They can also perform reprogramming or synchronization, when your vehicle is experiencing issues communicating with your keyfob.
Key Fob Battery Damage
Most key fobs rely on a small battery to power their internal components, such as buttons that trigger the chip and antenna to emit a radio frequency. The battery also powers the plastic casings that protect these components. The key fob you have will not function if the battery dead. Fortunately, the solution is simple and affordable to replace it. A lot of manufacturers provide instructions in their owner's manual on how to replace the battery of the key fob. It's not a difficult task and you'll save money by doing it yourself instead of taking the fob to a dealer or auto shop.
If your key fob is not working after replacing the battery, it could be experiencing another problem. Inspect the key fob for signs of physical damage, for example cracks or scratches. You can also examine the circuit board by opening the case. If you feel comfortable doing this, then you can use a cotton swab coated with rubbing alcohol to clean the contact points on the circuit board. This will eliminate the corrosion without damaging the fob.
Key fobs also need to be programmed to connect to the receiver of the vehicle. This is done to ensure that only people who have keys for the same vehicle are able to unlock the car and keep other key fobs out of trying to access vehicles they are not intended for. If you have recently had your keyfob repaired or replaced or if it has been in use for a while the transmitter and receive could have become disconnected.
automotive key repair to test this is using a spare key fob you have. This will help you determine whether the issue is related to the keyfob, or the electrical systems of your vehicle. A car mechanic can help you reconnect any wires that have been disconnected and help you resolve the problem. You could also try connecting the key fob to a different receiver and try to determine if this solves the problem. If you're unable to do this, you may need to take your key fob to an auto dealer or repair shop for more extensive repairs.
Damaged Key Fob Transmitter
When your car key fob stops working, it can be a major hassle. Most key fobs for cars can be repairable by following a few simple guidelines. Examine the fob to determine if it has any physical damage and ensure that it is not just dead. A new battery might be all you need but if it's not enough to fix the problem, there could be a more serious issue with the fob transmitter.
It's not surprising that car key fobs wear down over time. They're made of a variety of moving parts. A damaged transmitter on your fob can prevent your car from starting or unlocking the doors. A damaged transmitter can also affect radio signals sent from your key fob to the receiver inside the car. If you suspect your key fob's transmitter is damaged, take it to a local mechanic for inspection and repair.
Batteries are often the cause of a key fob not working. Key fob batteries generally last between three and five years, so it's recommended to buy new ones on a regular basis.
The majority of people can change the battery on the key fob at home. You'll need a flat-head screwdriver in order to pry the case open. Once you have it opened, you'll be able to replace the battery. The majority of key fobs are powered by 3V button cells which can be found in a majority of auto parts stores.
A damaged receiver may be the reason behind your key fob not responding. This could be a problem that is frustrating, because it usually happens when you're driving. If your key fob isn't appearing to be receiving a signal Try placing it inside the driver's door lock.
A damaged receiver can also cause your key fob to act erratically, such as by turning off or locking the vehicle whenever you press one of its buttons. If you have an extra key fob, try using it to see if it can respond to the vehicle's commands. If you don't have a spare key fob, contact your dealer to request service. If your current key fob is still under warranty, some new-car dealers might be able to offer a replacement for free.
Damaged key fob receiver
Key fobs can be prone to a number of problems. They are useful tools that allow us to lock and unlock our vehicles. If your remote key fob for your car isn't working properly it's time to call a locksmith or your auto dealer for help. Fortunately, a lot of common problems with key fobs can be easily solved without having to shell out for a costly replacement. Here are the five most frequent reasons why your key fob may not be working:
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
Over time the transmitter and receiver of a car key fob may become out of sync. In order to resolve this problem, you will need to sync the key fob and its receiver following the reprogramming instructions for your vehicle. You can find these instructions in the owner's manual, or ask your dealer in person for assistance.
If reprogramming the keyfob does not solve the issue, there may be damage or interference with your receiver or keyfob. Luckily, this issue is easy to fix by opening your key fob to take a closer view of the inside. Check for signs of damage, like cracks in the board, tiny electronic components that aren't connected to the board or damaged or bent battery contacts. If you find any of these, you can repair your key fob by replacing the damaged parts.
The best option for you will depend on your budget and ease of use. If your key fob is damaged or dropped, it may be more affordable to replace it by a professional. In any event, make sure to take care of your key fob so it can give you years of trouble-free operation. You can prolong its lifespan by cleaning it regularly and avoid extreme temperatures or electromagnetic fields. By choosing an expert who is familiar with the make and model of your vehicle you can be certain that your key fob is always functioning as intended.