How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs can become damaged even if we use them often. They can actually break down in various ways.
The most frequent issue is a dead battery but other issues can be much more serious. Most of these issues can be solved by a quick fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most common cause of a key fob not working. Fob batteries can deplete quickly, especially if they are exposed to extreme heat or cold temperatures, humidity, or water. It is a good idea to keep an extra fob battery in your wallet in case.
The LED light will usually stop glowing when the battery in the car key fob is low. It's also possible that your key fob won't work from the same distance it did in the past. In this instance, the key fob may require reprogramming or replaced entirely.
Fortunately replacing a car key fob battery is simple. First, find out what kind of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the side of the fob. If you're not sure then a quick Google search will help. Once you've identified the type of battery and the key fob, you can open it at the seam. 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. Insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers aren't aware that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons no longer work. This can be corrected by reprogramming your fob. However it can be time-consuming and expensive. You can also contact roadside assistance to determine if they are able to restart your car and get it back on the road.
If you've tried both solutions and your vehicle still won't start, it's the right time to contact an expert. A qualified technician can determine if your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or the fob simply requires a replacement battery. They can also recommend a reputable auto repair shop to replace your key fob. Sometimes, however, a new fob may be the best option.
Circuit Board Damage
The key fob isn't impervious to destruction, but it can be able to withstand a variety of physical damage. The battery, circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair amount of wear and tear over time, so it's important to be on guard and take care of them to keep your car key fob functioning efficiently.
Verify that the battery still functioning in your key fob. If it is replaced, check if it fixes your issue. If not, you might have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge since some key fobs do not have a release mechanism that is easy to open them, and you can easily harm your device if you try to force it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however it is recommended to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is a damaged or damaged circuit board inside the key fob. It can be caused by various factors, including moisture or dirt getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or an unintentional firmware update may be the cause for this. If your key fob has stopped working completely, think about having it reprogrammed by a locksmith that specializes in this type of work.
Radio interference is a different possibility. This could happen when you have other wireless devices around that transmit on the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case you need to contact the other device manufacturer to make sure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob has an issue with the switch or another electrical component that needs to be replaced. This is a harder fix however, there are guides online that explain how to do it yourself. It's important to be careful when doing this, though because the circuit boards inside your key fob are tiny and can break easily in the event of rough handling. If you decide to do this yourself, make certain to use a top quality SMT switch and solder it into place properly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs can suffer quite a bit of wear and tear. They are prone to getting dropped and spend a lot of time being jostled in your pocket or purse. The constant jostling can cause the buttons to wear down or get stuck. In this case it's possible that a simple adjustment will be all that's needed to make it work again.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that are able to detect when they've been hit. They're made to do this because they can help decrease the chance of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when you press them, they're worn out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board that is in the key fob also sends signals to your car. These signals include unlock and lock commands and instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board within your vehicle is damaged, your key fob might not allow you to unlock or start your engine. This type of damage is typically caused by water or blunt force.
site 'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating if you find yourself pressing the buttons more than normal to get them to function. The fob may also stop sending a signal to your car or have a lower range.
If you're unable to unlock your key fob, unlock or start your car, it's important to contact a locksmith in your area immediately. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob itself is damaged or the ignition cylinder has worn out.
Fortunately, most car key fob issues aren't serious or complicated. Keep a spare key fob in your vehicle at all times to avoid being surprised by a malfunctioning device. You'll never be caught in the middle because of an unresponsive or lost key. Of course, if you do happen to lose your spare car key A locksmith can change the key to work with your car's ignition. They'll also be able fix any internal damage that has occurred on your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob is more than just shield the buttons and batteries. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for all the electrical magic when you press the button on your key fob. This board takes the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.
If the board is damaged or dead your key fob will not be able to function. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead may need to be reprogrammed, which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can assist you with.
Another reason your key fob might not be working is that the batteries are not working. This is a simple solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. You can get the replacement battery from your local auto parts shop or online. These batteries are not just for key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob, there is different ways to open it up and gain access to the inside. A quick internet search should reveal what kind of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it uses. From there, you can purchase the replacement and simply take the old one out and the new one in.
When repairing a broken key fob, the main concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons in any way. If you attempt to pry apart the key fob using the screwdriver or another sharp edge, it could break the plastic or damage the case. Fortunately, a replacement case is cheap and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
So, if your key fob isn't functioning, check to see if the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board is damaged. If that's not the case, a professional can fix it quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it might be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you buy online.
