Key Fob Repair Service - 5 Common Reasons Your Key Fob Won't Work
It can be a traumatic experience when your key fob malfunctions. Most fob issues can be solved at home with an auto locksmith, or aren't urgent.
The first step is to examine the key fob to see whether it is suffering from physical damage or a dead battery. Then, try resetting the fob by following the instructions from your owner's manual.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
With a key fob, you can unlock and start your vehicle without fumbling around with your keys. Many models can even unlock hatchbacks, doors and trunks with the touch of one button. A broken key fob is not as difficult to fix as it might appear. You can take your vehicle to an repair shop or a dealership for help. But did you know that you can also fix your fob yourself?
The first thing you'll need is a fresh, new CR2032 battery. The majority of hardware stores sell them in multipacks. Then, use an flathead screwdriver or watch to the case of the fob. Once you've opened the first gap, you can use your pry tool to further open the case. You should be gentle in order not to harm the fob or its circuit board.
The new battery should be placed under the tabs indicated by yellow arrows in this photo. Make sure it goes in over the two tabs highlighted by the green arrows. Close your key fob after installing the new battery and then test it. If it doesn't work, it might be time to call an expert for more detailed troubleshooting.
In rare cases replacement of the battery in the fob's key can leave you with a nonfunctional device. In this instance, there's probably something wrong with the device or vehicle. Keep remote key repairs so that you're prepared in the event that your battery dies or if a problem occurs.
In addition to battery replacement, you may also request an expert to examine and make any other repairs to your key fob. They can look for damaged buttons or contacts, as well as other parts. They can also do the reprogramming process or synchronization if your vehicle is having issues communicating with your key fob.
Damaged Key Fob Battery
The majority of key fobs are powered by a tiny battery, which powers their internal components. This includes the buttons that turn on the antenna and chip for releasing the radio frequency. The battery also powers the plastic casing which protects these components. Your key fob won't function if the battery is 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 the key fob's battery. It's not difficult to do and you can save money by doing it yourself instead of taking the fob to a dealership or auto shop.
You may have a different problem if your key fob still does not function after replacing the batteries. Examine the key fob to see if there are any physical damage, like cracks or dents. You can also look inside the case to check the circuit board for corrosion or other issues. If you are comfortable doing this, you can make use of a cotton swab that has been that has been soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean the contact points on the key fob's circuit board. This will remove the corrosion without causing damage to the fob.
The key fobs should also be programmed to connect to the vehicle receiver. This is to ensure that only persons with keys for the same vehicle can unlock the car and to keep other key fobs out of attempting to access vehicles that they were not designed for. If you have recently had your keyfob repaired or replaced or it has been in use for a while the transmitter and receive may have become disconnected.
You can test this by using a spare remote control that you own. This will let you know whether the issue is related to the keyfob or with the vehicle's electrical systems. A mechanic can assist you to resolve the issue by reconnecting any wires that are disconnected. You could also try connecting the key fob to an alternative receiver to check if that fixes the problem. If you're unable to connect your key fob to another receiver in your vehicle, you might be required to take it to a dealership or auto repair shop for more detailed repairs.
Damaged Key Fob Transmitter
It can be a major inconvenience when your car key fob fails to work. Fortunately, most key fobs for cars can be repaired with just a few steps. Examine the fob to determine whether it's suffering from physical damage, and ensure that it is not just dead. If a replacement battery doesn't solve the issue there could be a bigger issue.
Car key fobs contain a lot of moving parts, which is why it's normal for them to undergo wear and tear with time. A damaged transmitter on your fob can stop 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 technician for repair and inspection if you suspect that the transmitter is damaged.
One of the main reasons that a key fob ceases functioning is because the batteries are dying. Key fob batteries last between three and five years. It is recommended to replace them regularly.
Replacing a key fob's battery is a fairly simple procedure that can be done by most people at home. You'll require a flat-head screwdriver to pry the case open, and after that you'll be able replace the battery. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells that are sold in most auto parts stores.
Another reason that your key fob might stop responding is because it has an ineffective receiver. This can be a frustrating issue, since it typically occurs when you're driving. If you find that your key fob isn't getting a signal from the vehicle, try placing it in the driver's door lock.
A damaged receiver can also cause your key fob to act in a strange manner, for example, switching off or locking the vehicle when you press one of its buttons. If you have a spare key fob, you can try using it to see if it can respond to the vehicle's commands. If you don't have an extra key fob, you can call your dealer to request service. If your current key fob is under warranty, some dealerships selling new cars may be able to offer a replacement for free.
Damaged key fob receiver
Key fobs can have a number of problems. They are useful tools that allow us to lock, unlock and start our vehicles. If your remote key fob for your car isn't working correctly it's possible to contact a locksmith or auto dealer. Fortunately, most common problems with key fobs can be easily fixed without needing to spend money on a costly replacement. Here are the five most frequent reasons your key fob may not be working:
Key Fob Needs Re-Programming
In time the receiver and transmitter of a car key fob may become out of sync. In order to resolve this problem, you will need to sync the key fob with its receiver following the instructions for reprogramming your car. These instructions are found in your owner's manual or you can consult your local dealer to help you.
If you are unable to fix the issue, it could be other damage or interference to your key fob, or its receiver. It's generally easy to fix if you take off your key fob and take a closer look inside. Find indications of damage, like cracks on the board, tiny electronic components that aren't attached to the board, or damaged or bent battery contacts. If you spot any of these, you can repair your key fob by replacing the damaged components.
If you have to repair or replace your key fob, the ideal solution depends on the cause of the problem and how much you value convenience and price. If your key fob is damaged or dropped, it may be more affordable to have it replaced professionally. In any event, make certain to take care of your key fob so that it can continue to give you years of trouble-free operation. You can prolong its lifespan by cleaning it regularly and avoid extreme temperatures or electromagnetic fields. By selecting an expert who is familiar with the make and model of your vehicle you can be certain that your key fob will always be functioning as intended.