How to Repair Car Key Fob Car Key Fobs

Key fobs are susceptible to damage even if we use them often. In fact, they can break down in many different ways.

Other issues can be more grave than a dead battery. Fortunately, the majority of them can be resolved with a quick DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is the most common cause of the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, particularly if they are exposed or humid temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you need it.

You can usually tell that the battery in your car remote key fob repair key fob is depleted because the light on the LED will stop glowing. It's also possible that the fob will no longer work from the same distance it used to. In this instance the key fob might need to be programmed again or replaced altogether.

Fortunately replacing the battery in a car key fob is a simple task. Find out the type of battery that is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the side of the fob. Google can help in case you're unsure. Open the key fob along the seam once you've identified the battery type. You will need to use a small flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail break the two halves. Then, you can remove the battery that was removed and replace it with an alternative one in its place. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers don't even realize that their fob has gone out of service until they lock or unlock their car and the buttons stop working. This can be corrected by reprogramming the fob. However, it can be time-consuming and expensive. You can also contact roadside assistance to see if they are able to jumpstart your car and get it back on the road.

If you have tried all of these options and your car is still unable to start, then it's time to call a professional. A qualified technician will be able to determine if your car's computer system needs to be reprogrammed or the fob simply requires a new battery. They may also recommend an auto shop to replace the fob that you use to access your car. Sometimes an entirely new fob could be the best solution.

Damaged Circuit Board

A key fob can take a lot of physical abuse and is not impervious to destruction. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these components to keep your key fob in good condition.

The easiest thing to check is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't dead. If it is replaced, check if it fixes your issue. If this does not work, you may need to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. This can be a challenge because some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them up, and you can easily damage your fob if you attempt to break it. You can buy a tool to open your key fob. But, you must always follow the instructions of the manufacignals include commands to unlock and lock your car, and commands to start your engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, then your key fob may not unlock or start your engine. This type of damage is usually caused by blunt force or water.

If you're forced to press the buttons harder than normal to activate them If this is the case, then your key fob's buttons are wearing out. In addition the fob might cease transmitting signals to the car or have less range than before.

If you're unable to unlock your key fob, unlock or start your car key fob repairs, you need to call a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob is damaged or your ignition cylinder has worn down.

Fortunately, most key fob issues in cars aren't a major or difficult issue. The best way to avoid being caught off guard by a malfunctioning key fob is to keep an extra key in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're not left stranded somewhere because of a lost or malfunctioning key. If you have lost your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They can also keys repair near me any internal damage to your key fob.

Broken Case

The case of your key fob provides more than just protection for the buttons and battery. The case also houses the circuitry that does all the electrical magic whenever you press the key fob button. This board transmits the signal from your key fob to your car.

The key fob won't function if the board is damaged. A key fob that is dead may only need to be reprogrammed by your local auto locksmith or dealer.

Another reason your key fob may not be functioning is that the batteries are dead. This is a quick solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. The good thing is that you can locate a replacement battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.

There are a variety of ways to open a key fob and get inside it, based on the kind. A quick search online should show you which type of key fob you have and the type of battery it takes. From there, you can purchase the replacement and simply take 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 attempt to pry off the key fob with a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could crack the plastic or break the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can buy the entire fob including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for under $40.

If your key fob does not work, check if you've damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this isn't the case, a professional will repair it for you quickly and inexpensively. If not, it could be the time to purchase an upgrade. Make sure to verify the warranty of any replacement or used fobs that you purchase online.