Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
It can be a stressful experience when your key fob breaks down. Fortunately, most fob issues aren't major or difficult and can be resolved at home or by an auto locksmith near you.
First, check the key fob to see if it has any physical damage or an inoperative battery. Then, you can reset the fob according to the instructions in your owner’s manual.
Dead Key Fob Battery
A key fob lets you to open and start your vehicle without having to mess around with your physical keys. Many models unlock doors, hatchbacks, and trunks by pressing a button. Although the battery of your key fob is dead, it may seem like a huge problem, it's actually one of the easiest issues to fix. You can take your car to a repair shop or dealership for assistance. But did you know that you could fix your fob on your own?
The first thing you'll require is a brand new, fresh CR2032 battery. Most hardware stores carry them in multipacks. Make use of a flathead screwdriver, or a watch to open the case open. Once you've opened the first gap and you're ready to use your pry tool to open the case. Be gentle in order not to damage the fob or its circuit board.
Place the new battery in the tabs indicated by yellow arrows in this photo. Make sure to place the battery over the two smaller tabs indicated by green arrows. Close your key fob after you have installed the new battery, and then test it. If it still doesn't work, it might be the right time to contact an expert for more thorough troubleshooting.
In rare cases replacement of the battery in the key fob could result in a non-functional device. If this happens, it's likely that there's a problem with your device or the vehicle itself. Keep a spare keyfob handy to be prepared in case the battery dies or if a problem occurs.
You can also ask a professional to carry out other key fob repair services. They can check for damaged buttons as well as contacts and other parts. They can also perform reprogramming or synchronization, in the event that your vehicle is having issues communicating with your keyfob.
Key Fob Battery Damage
The majority of key fobs are powered by a small battery that powers the internal components. This includes the buttons that activate the chip and antenna for releasing a radio frequency. The battery also powers the plastic casing that protects these components. Your key fob won't work if the battery is dead. The solution is easy and cheap: just replace it. In their user's manuals the majority of manufacturers offer instructions on how to replace key fob batteries. It isn't easy but it's easy to complete and you'll likely save money by doing it yourself instead of taking the fob to a dealership or auto shop.
If your key fob not working after replacing the battery, it could have a different issue. Inspect the key fob for signs of physical damage, like cracks or scratches. repair key can also inspect the circuit board by opening the case. If you are comfortable, you can use a cotton ball coated with rubbing alcohol to clean contact points on the circuit board of the key fob. This will eliminate corrosion without causing any damage to the fob.
The key fobs also need to be programmed so that they can connect to the vehicle receiver. This is done so that only those who have the keys to the same car are able to unlock the vehicle and to make sure that key fobs not intended for that particular vehicle from attempting to open it. If you've recently had your keyfob repaired or replaced or if it's been unused for a while the transmitter and receive may have been disconnected.
You can test this by using a spare remote that you own. This will tell you whether the issue is related to the key fob or the electrical system in your vehicle. A mechanic can help you solve the issue by reconnecting any wires that have been disconnected. You could also try connecting the key fob with another receiver and check if that fixes the issue. If you're unable to accomplish this, you may need to take your key fob to an auto dealer or repair shop for more thorough repairs.
Key Fob Transmitter Damaged
If your car's key fob isn't working, it could be a major inconvenience. Most car key fobs are repairable by following a few easy steps. First, check the fob for physical damage and make sure it's not just dead. A new battery could be all that's needed however, if it fails to fix the issue, there could be a larger issue with the fob's transmitter.
Car key fobs have lots of moving parts, which is why it's normal for them to experience some wear and tear over time. A damaged transmitter can stop you from starting your car or unlocking the doors. Additionally a damaged transmitter may affect the radio signals that are sent between your key fob's receiver and your key fob inside the vehicle. Bring your key fob to a mechanic to be repaired and inspected if you believe that the transmitter is damaged.
Batteries are usually the reason of a key fob that isn't working. Key fob batteries last between 3 and 5 years. It's best to replace them regularly.
The majority of people can replace the battery on the key fob at home. All you require is a screwdriver with a flat head to pry open the case, and then replace the old battery with a brand new one. Most key fobs use 3V button cells that are available at most auto parts stores.
Another reason that your key fob may not be responding is due to a defective receiver. This can be a very frustrating issue, as it usually occurs while you are driving. If your key fob doesn't appear to be receiving a signal Try placing it inside the driver's side door lock.
A damaged receiver can also cause your key fob to behave erratically, such as by shutting off or locking the vehicle when you press one of its buttons. If you have a spare key fob, try using it to see if it can respond to the vehicle's commands. Contact your dealer if don't have an extra keyfob. If your current key fob is under warranty, some new-car dealers may be able provide a replacement at no cost.
Damaged Key Fob Receiver
Key fobs are great devices that allow us to lock or unlock our automobiles, they are susceptible to a range of problems. If your remote key fob for your car isn't functioning properly, it may be time to contact a locksmith or your auto dealer for help. Fortunately, a lot of common key fob issues are easily solved without having to pay for an expensive replacement. Here are five of the most commonly-cited reasons your key fob may not be functioning:
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
Over time, a car's key fob transmitter and receiver could be out of sync with one and the other. To fix this issue you'll need to sync your key fob and receiver by following the reprogramming guidelines for your vehicle. These instructions are found in your owner's manual or you can consult your local dealer to help you.
If reprogramming your keyfob can not resolve the issue, there might be a problem or an interference with your keyfob or receiver. Fortunately, this is usually simple to repair by opening your key fob to take a closer inspection of the inside. Check for signs of damage, for example cracks on the board, tiny electronic components that aren’t attached to the board, or bent or damaged battery contacts. If you spot any of these, you can fix your key fob by replacing damaged parts.
The best solution for you is based on your budget and the convenience. However, if your key fob has been damaged by a fall or other physical damages it could be simpler and more affordable to replace it by an expert. In any event, make certain to take care of your key fob so it can give you years of smooth operation. By cleaning it regularly and avoiding exposing it extreme magnetic fields or temperatures, you can ensure it will last as long as is possible. In addition, by choosing an expert with a lot of experience in your particular car's model and make you can be sure that your key fob will work exactly as intended.