Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
The loss of your key fob down is a frustrating situation. Fortunately, most fob issues aren't too serious or complex and can be fixed at home or by an auto locksmith near you.
The first step is to examine the fob of your key to determine if it has any physical damage or an inoperative battery. Then, you can reset the fob according to the instructions contained in your owner's manual.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Key fobs allow you to unlock and even start your vehicle without having to mess around using your keys. A lot of models unlock doors, trunks, and hatchbacks with pressing the button. Although the battery of your key fob is dead, it may seem like a huge inconvenience, it's actually one of the easiest issues to resolve. The majority of car owners know they can visit a dealership or repair shop for help but did you know that you could also attempt to fix your own key fob at home?
The first thing you'll need is a new, clean CR2032 battery. Most hardware stores carry them in multipacks. Then make use of an flathead screwdriver or watch to the case of the fob. After you've widened the first gap then you can employ your pry tool to further open the case. It is recommended to be gentle, as you don't want breaking the case of the fob or the circuit board within.
The new battery should be placed under the tabs marked with yellow arrows on this image. Be sure to place the battery over the two smaller tabs indicated by the green arrows. Close your key fob after you have installed the new battery and then test it. If the key fob still doesn't function, you may need to contact a professional for a more thorough troubleshooting.
In rare cases replacement of a battery in a keyfob may result in a device that isn't functioning. In this case there's probably a problem with the fob or vehicle. Keep a spare keyfob on hand to be prepared in the event that your battery dies or if an issue arises.
In addition to battery replacement, you can also ask an expert to inspect and make any other key fob repairs. They can look for damages to buttons or contacts as well as other components and also do reprogramming and synchronization if your vehicle is having a difficult communicating with your key fob.
Damaged Key Fob Battery
Most key fobs use a small battery to power their internal components, including buttons that trigger the antenna and chip to release radio frequencies. The battery also powers the plastic casings to protect the components. Your key fob will not function if the battery dead. The solution is easy and cost-effective: replace the battery. In the owner's manual of their product the majority of manufacturers offer instructions on how to replace key fob's batteries. It's not difficult and you'll save money by doing it on your own instead of taking the fob to a dealership or auto shop.
If your key fob is not working after replacing the battery, it could be experiencing another problem. Check the key fob to check whether there are physical damage, like cracks or dent. You can also open the case to inspect the circuit board for signs of corrosion or other issues. If you feel at ease, employ a cotton ball dipped into rubbing alcohol to clean contact points on the circuit board of the key fob. This will eliminate the corrosion without damaging your fob.
Key fobs also need to be programmed to connect to the vehicle's receiver. This is to ensure that only those with 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 a key fob repaired or replaced or if it hasn't been used for a long time, the receiver and transmitter could have become disconnected.
An effective method to test this is using an extra key fob you have. This will let you know if the issue is with the keyfob or the electrical system of the vehicle. A mechanic at your vehicle will be able to reconnect any wires that have been disconnected and help you resolve the problem. You can also try connecting the key fob with a different receiver and check if that fixes the issue. If you are unable connect your key fob to a different receiver in your vehicle, you may need to bring it to a car dealership or auto repair shop to get more precise repairs.
Damaged Key Fob Transmitter
It can be a major inconvenience when your car key fob fails to work. Thankfully, most key fobs for cars can be fixed with a few simple steps. Examine the fob to determine if it has any physical damage, and ensure that it is not just dead. If a new battery does not solve the problem, it could be a more serious issue.
It's not a surprise that key fobs for cars wear out with time. They have many moving parts. A damaged transmitter for your key fob could prevent your vehicle from starting or from unlocking the doors. Furthermore, a damaged transmitter can affect the radio signals 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 suspect that the transmitter is damaged.
Batteries are usually the reason of a key fob not working. Key fob batteries last between 3 and five years. It's best to replace them frequently.
Replacing car key repair company of a key fob is a relatively simple process that most people can do at home. You'll need an flat-head screwdriver to open the case open. Once you have it opened, you'll be able to replace the old battery. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cell batteries that are available at most auto parts stores.
A defective receiver could also be the cause of your key fob not responding. This is a frustrating problem, as it usually occurs when you're driving. If you notice that your key fob doesn't receive an alert from your vehicle, try putting it in the driver's door lock.
A damaged receiver could cause your key fob to behave uncontrollably. For example, it could shut off or lock the vehicle when you push one of its buttons. If you have an extra key fob, you can try using it to see if it is able to respond to the vehicle's commands. If you don't have an additional key fob, contact your dealer to request service. If your current key fob is still under warranty, some dealerships selling new cars may be able to provide a free replacement.
Damaged Key Fob Receiver
While key fobs are great convenience tools that let us lock and unlock our vehicles, they can be susceptible to a variety of problems. If your remote key fob for your car isn't working properly it's time to call an auto locksmith or locksmith dealer for assistance. Most common problems with key fobs are easily fixable without the need for an expensive replacement. Here are five of the most common reasons why your key fob may not be working:
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
In time the receiver and transmitter of a car key fob could become out-of-synchrony. To fix this issue, you'll have to reconnect the key fob with its receiver by following the instructions for reprogramming your vehicle. You can find these instructions in your owner's guide or ask your dealer nearby for assistance.
If the re-programming of your key fob fails to fix the issue, it may be other issues or interference to your key fob, or its receiver. Luckily, this is often easy to fix by opening the key fob for a better inspection of the inside. Look for evidence of damage, like cracks in the board tiny electronic components that aren't connected to the board or bent or damaged battery contacts. You can repair the key fob in the event that you discover any of the above.
Whether you need to replace or repair your key fob, the most effective solution is determined by the root of the issue and the amount you value convenience and the cost. If your key fob has been dropped or subjected to other physical damages it might be simpler and less expensive to replace it by an expert. In any event, make certain to take care of your key fob so that it can continue to provide you with years of uninterrupted operation. By regularly cleaning it and avoiding exposing it to extreme temperatures or electromagnetic fields you can ensure that it will last for the longest time possible. By selecting a professional with experience with the model and make of your vehicle you can be certain that your key fob will always be working as intended.