How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we use them many a times, key fobs are not impervious to destruction. In fact, they can break down in many different ways.
The most frequent issue is the battery being dead, other issues can be much more serious. Luckily, most of these issues can be solved by a simple DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent cause of a key fob that is not working. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially when they are exposed or humid temperatures, or water. It is a good idea to keep an extra fob battery in your wallet just in case.
It is easy to tell the moment the battery in your car key fob is running low by the fact that the LED light will stop glowing. It's also possible that your key fob will no longer work from the same distance as it used to. In this scenario it could be necessary to re-program the key fob or replace it completely.
It is simple to replace a car keyfob battery. Find out the type of battery used. The type of battery should be embossed in the side of your key fob. Google can help you in case you're unsure. Once you've identified the type of battery you want to use, open the key fob at the junction. You'll need an small screwdriver with a flat head or even your fingernail split the two halves. Remove the old battery and replace it with a brand new one. Then, insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing 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 your fob. However it can be time-consuming and expensive. Another option is to call roadside assistance and see if they are able to jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you've tried all the options but your vehicle doesn't start, it's the right time to call an expert. A certified technician will be able to determine if the car's computer system needs to be reprogrammed or if the fob requires a replacement battery. They will also suggest a reputable auto repair shop to replace your key fob. In the end, though sometimes, a brand new fob is the most effective solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob can take a lot of physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is essential to take care of these components to keep your key fob in good working order.
Make sure that the battery still working on your key fob. If it is then replace the battery and determine if this fixes the issue. If this does not work, you may have to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. It can be difficult to open certain key fobs since they don't have an easy release mechanism. You may harm your fob by trying to break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, but it is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or defective key circuit board for the fob is another frequent issue. It can be caused by a number of things like moisture or dirt that gets into the battery compartment software problems or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob has stopped functioning, you might be interested in getting it changed. This can be accomplished by a locksmith that specializes in this work.
Radio interference is also a possibility. This could happen if you have other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency, for example, radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation, you should contact the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.
You may also need to replace a switch or an electrical component inside your key fob. You can find online guides that show you how to fix this yourself. It's important to be careful when you do this it is important to be careful, since the circuit boards inside the key fob are tiny and are susceptible to breaking when handled rough. If you're doing this yourself, be sure to use a good quality SMT switch and then solder it in place correctly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are subject to a lot wear and wear and tear. They are more prone to being dropped and spend a lot of time being tossed around in your pocket or purse. This jostling can sometimes cause the buttons to wear down or become stuck. If this happens an easy adjustment could be all that's needed to restore the button's functionality.
Modern key fobs are fitted with sensors that detect when they have been press. They're made to do this because they can help decrease the chance of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when pushed, that's an indication that they're worn out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board inside the key fob also sends signals to your car. remote key fob repair include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then your key fob might not allow you to unlock your car or start the engine. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.
You'll be able to tell that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating when you press them harder than normal in order to get them working. Additionally, your fob may stop sending a signal to the car or it'll have less range than before.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you're not able to use the key fob to start your vehicle. They can determine if your key fob is damaged, or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Luckily, most car key fob problems aren't too serious or complex. Keep a spare key fob in your vehicle always in case you end up being thrown off by a malfunctioning key. This will ensure that you're not stuck in a bind because of a lost or malfunctioning key. If you lose your spare key, a professional locksmith can reset it to work with your vehicle's engine. They can also repair any internal damage to the key fob.
Broken Case
The case of your key fob is more than just a place to store the buttons and battery. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for all the electrical magic when you hit the button on your key fob. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob and transmits it to your car.
The key fob won't work if the board is damaged. A dead key fob may require reprogramming by your local auto locksmith, or dealer.
Batteries could be the cause of your key fob not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The positive side is that you can locate a replacement battery online or at your local auto parts shop since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
Depending on the kind of key fob, there are various ways to open it and get inside. You can find out what kind of battery your key fob has by conducting a quick online search. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
The biggest concern when repairing an old car key fob is that you don't want to cause damage to the circuit board or buttons further. When you try to break the key fob using a hard edge like a screwdriver can damage the case or even scratch the plastic. A replacement case isn't much and you can buy an entire fob, including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
If your key fob won't work, you should check if you've damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this is not the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and easily by a professional. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Just be sure to check for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs that you purchase on the internet.
