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How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Although we test them a lot keys aren't indestructible. They can be destroyed in a variety of ways.

Other issues can be more grave than an unresponsive battery. Luckily, most of these issues can be solved with a quick DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is the most frequent cause of a key fob not working. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed to hot or cold temperatures, humidity or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.

The LED light will generally stop blinking when the battery in your car key fob is running low. The fob might also stop working at the same distance it used to. In this scenario it could be necessary to re-program your key fob or even replace it entirely.

Fortunately the replacement of the battery in a car key fob is a simple task. Find out the type of battery used. The type of battery should be embossed in the side of your key fob. If you're not sure it is, a quick Google search can help. The key fob can be opened across the seam after you've identified the battery type. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or your fingernail to break the two halves. Take the old battery out, and replace it with a brand new one. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing towards the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not realize their fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons do not respond. In some cases this problem can be resolved by reprogramming the fob, however, it can be costly and time-consuming. You can also contact roadside assistance to find out whether they are able to start your vehicle and get it back on the road.

If you've tried all of these options and your car still won't start, then it's time to call a professional. A qualified technician can determine the computer in your car needs changing its programming, or if the fob simply needs an upgrade in battery. They can also suggest an auto repair shop that can replace the key fob. In the end, sometimes a brand new fob is the most effective solution.

Circuit Board Damage

Key fobs aren't indestructible, but it can be able to withstand a variety of physical damage. The battery, circuit board, and buttons all get their fair amount of wear and tear over the course of time, so it's important to be on guard and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob functioning efficiently.

Check that the battery is still working on your key fob. If it is, replace the battery and determine if this fixes the issue. If not, you'll need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge because some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them up and you may harm your device if you try to pull it apart. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, however you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.

Another issue that is common is a damaged or faulty circuit board inside the key fob. It can be caused by numerous factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or an accident firmware update could be the cause for this. If your key fob has stopped working completely, consider having it reprogrammed by an expert locksmith who specializes in this type of work.

Radio interference is also a possibility. It could happen if are other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency as your key fob, for instance radar detectors, home security systems. If this is the case you need to contact the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.

There may be a need to replace a switch or an electrical component inside your key fob. You can find online guides that help you fix this yourself. It is important to be cautious when doing this, though, as the circuit boards that are inside the key fob are tiny and easily break when handled rough. If you decide to do this yourself, be sure to use a high quality SMT switch and then solder it to the correct place.

Out Buttons Out Buttons

Car key fobs can suffer a lot of wear and tear. They are susceptible to being lost and spend a significant amount of time in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause the buttons to wear out or snagged. A simple adjustment can solve the problem.

The majority of modern key fobs have sensors that detect if they've been pressed. They're designed 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 pressed, they are damaged and should be replaced.

The circuit board that is in the key fob transmits signals to your car. The signals include commands to unlock and lock and commands to start your engine. If the circuit board within your vehicle is damaged, your key fob will not be able to unlock or start your engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force or something that scratches the circuit board.

You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are wearing out when you press the buttons more than normal to get them to work. Additionally, your fob may stop sending a signal to the car or have less range than it did prior to.

If you're unable to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, you need to call a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob itself is damaged or your ignition cylinder has worn out.

Fortunately, most car key repair service key fob issues aren't serious or complicated. The best way to avoid getting surprised by a malfunctioning key fob is to have an extra key in your possession at all times. You won't be left stranded because of a malfunctioning or lost key. If you lose your spare key, an expert locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that's been caused to the key fob.

Broken Case

The case for your key fob is more than just a place to store the buttons and battery. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic every time you press the key fob button. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.

Your key fob will not work if the board is damaged. Sometimes a dead key fob can be reprogrammed, which is something your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.

Batteries may be the cause of your key fob not working. The battery can be replaced at your home. The good thing is that you can get an alternative battery on the internet or at a local auto parts store since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.

There are a variety of ways to open up a key fob and get inside it, based on the kind. You can determine what kind of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick online search. You can then purchase a new one, take the old one out, and put the new one in.

The biggest concern when repairing a broken car key fob is that you don't want to harm the circuit board or buttons further. Trying to pry apart the key fob using a hard edge like screwdrivers can damage the case or even crack the plastic. Luckily, a replacement case is cheap and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.

If your key fob isn't working Check to see if the batteries are dead or if the circuit board has become damaged. If this isn't the case, a professional can Repair Car Key Fob it quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you buy online.