Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
It can be a frustrating experience when your key fob fails. Most fob problems can be fixed at home by an auto locksmith, or aren't serious.
First, examine the fob of your key to determine whether it has physical damage or an inoperative battery. Then, you can reset the fob following the instructions contained in your owner's manual.
Dead Key Fob Battery
With a key fob, you can start and unlock your vehicle without having to fiddle around with your keys. Many models unlock doors, trunks, and hatchbacks with pressing a button. Although the battery for your key fob has died might seem like a major problem, it's actually one of the most simple issues to solve. You can take your car to a repair shop or dealership for assistance. But did car key repair company TheKeyLab know that you can also fix your fob yourself?
The first thing you'll require is a fresh, new CR2032 battery. The majority of hardware stores sell them in multipacks. Make use of a flathead screwdriver or watch to push the case open. There's typically a slot or notch to begin, and once you've created the first gap you can wedge your pry tool like you would peel an apple or an orange to open the case more. You should be gentle since you don't want to damage the fob, or its circuit board.
Once you've got your case open, place the battery you just purchased under the tabs that are highlighted by yellow arrows in this image. Make sure that it is over the two tabs highlighted by the green arrows. Close your key fob after you have installed the new battery and test it. If the key fob still does not work, you may need to contact a professional for a more thorough troubleshooting.
In rare cases, replacing the battery in a key fob can still result in a malfunctioning device. In this case there's probably a problem with the vehicle or the fob. Keep a spare keyfob in your car so that you're prepared in the event that the battery fails or if an issue occurs.
You can also ask an expert to provide other key fob repair procedures. They can inspect for damaged buttons or contacts, as well as other components. They can also do the reprogramming process or synchronization when your vehicle is experiencing trouble communicating with your key fob.
Key Fob Battery Damage
The majority of key fobs are powered by a tiny battery, which powers their internal components. This includes the buttons that trigger the antenna and chip to release a radio frequency. The battery also powers the plastic casing that protects these parts. If the battery fails, your key fob will not function. The solution is simple and inexpensive simply replacing it. A lot of manufacturers provide instructions in their owner's manuals on how to replace the key fob battery. It's not difficult to do and you'll save money by doing it yourself instead of taking the fob to a dealer or auto shop.
You could have a different issue if your key fob doesn't work after replacing the batteries. Examine the key fob to check whether there are physical damage, like cracks or dents. You can also examine the circuit board by opening the case. If you're at ease, employ a cotton ball dipped into rubbing alcohol to clean contact points on the circuit board of the key fob. This will remove the corrosion, but not damage to the fob.
The key fobs should also be programmed to connect to the vehicle receiver. This is done to ensure that only people who have keys for the same vehicle can unlock the car and keep other key fobs out of attempting to access vehicles that they weren't designed for. If you've recently had your key fob repaired or replaced or it has been in use for a long time the transmitter and receiver may have been disconnected.
A good way to test this is by using an extra key fob you have. This will inform you whether the issue is with the key fob, or the electrical system in your vehicle. A mechanic in your car will be able to connect any disconnected wires and assist you in resolving the issue. Try connecting the key fob to another receiver and try to determine if this solves the issue. If you're unable to accomplish this, you may have to take your key fob to an auto repair shop or a dealer in your vehicle. repair shop for more extensive repairs.
Damaged Key Fob Transmitter
If your car key fob isn't working, it could be a major hassle. Thankfully, most key fobs for cars can be fixed with a few simple steps. First, examine the fob for physical damage, and make sure it's just dead. If a new battery does not fix the issue there could be a bigger issue.
Car key fobs have a lot of moving parts, which is why it's normal for them to experience some wear and tear over time. A damaged transmitter on your fob can hinder your car from starting or unlocking the doors. A damaged transmitter may also affect radio signals transmitted from your key fob to the receiver in the car. Bring your key fob to a professional for repair and inspection in the event that you think that the transmitter may be damaged.
One of the main reasons that a key fob ceases working is that its batteries are dying. Key fob batteries usually last between three and five years, which is why it's recommended to buy new ones on a regular basis.
The replacement of a key fob's battery is a simple task that anyone can complete at home. All you require is a screwdriver with a flat head to pry open the case, and then you can replace the old battery with a new one. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells which are available in a majority of auto parts stores.
Another reason that your key fob might stop responding is due to a defective receiver. This can be a frustrating problem since it typically occurs when you're driving. If you find that your key fob isn't receiving any signal from the vehicle, try putting it in the driver's door lock.
A damaged receiver may 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, you can try using it to see if it is able to respond to the vehicle's commands. If you don't have a spare key fob, call your dealer for service. If your current key fob is in warranty, a few new-car dealers might be able to offer a replacement for free.
Key fob receiver damaged
Key fobs may have several issues. They are useful tools that let us lock and unlock our vehicles. If your remote key fob in your car isn't working correctly, you may need to call a locksmith or auto dealer. Fortunately, a lot of common problems with key fobs can be easily fixed without needing to shell out for a costly replacement. Here are five of the most commonly-cited reasons why your key fob might not be working:
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
Over time, the key fob receiver and transmitter may be out of sync with each other. To fix this problem, you will need to re-sync the key fob and its receiver by following reprogramming instructions for your vehicle. You can find these instructions in your owner's guide or ask your local dealer for assistance.
If reprogramming the keyfob does not resolve the issue, there may be a problem or an interference with your keyfob or receiver. Luckily, this is often simple to fix by opening your key fob to take a closer inspection of the inside. Check for indications of damage, such as cracks in the circuit board, tiny electronic components that aren't attached to the circuit board, or bent or the battery contacts are oxidized. If you spot any of these, you can repair your key fob by replacing the damaged components.
The best solution for you will depend on your budget and ease of use. If your key fob was damaged or dropped, or has been subjected to other physical damages it could be simpler and less expensive to have it replaced by an expert. In any case, make certain to take care of your key fob so it can continue to provide you with years of smooth operation. By regularly cleaning it and avoiding exposing it extreme magnetic fields or temperatures, you can ensure it will last for as long as is possible. Furthermore, by selecting an expert with a lot of experience with your specific car's model and make, you can rest assured that your key fob will perform exactly as you intended it to.