How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we test them many a times, key fobs are not indestructible. They can actually be destroyed in various ways.
While the most common problem is the battery being dead however, other issues could be more grave. Fortunately, many of them can be resolved with a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is probably the most common reason the car key fob stop functioning. Fob batteries drain quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
You can usually tell when the battery of your car key fob is running low because the LED light will cease to glow. It's also possible that your key fob won't work at the same distance it used to. In this scenario it could be necessary to reprogram the key fob or replace it altogether.
It is simple to replace the car keyfob battery. First, find out what type of battery is used. The type of battery should be stamped on the back of your key fob. If you're unsure then doing a quick Google search will be helpful. Open the key fob along the seam after you've identified the battery type. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or your fingernail to 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 may not be aware their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their car and the buttons aren't responding. In some cases this problem can be resolved by reprogramming the fob however, it can be costly and time-consuming. 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 every solution but your vehicle doesn't start, it's time to speak with an expert. A certified technician will be able to determine whether your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob needs a replacement battery. They may also recommend an auto shop that will replace the key fob. Sometimes an entirely new fob might be the best solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob is able to withstand a lot of physical abuse and is not impervious to destruction. The battery, the circuit board and buttons will all experience their fair share of wear and tear over the course of time and it's crucial to be vigilant and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob functioning well.
Verify that the battery still working on your key fob. If it is replaced, see if that fixes your issue. If this does not work, you may have to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. key repair isn't easy to open certain key fobs because they do not have an easy-release mechanism. You could cause damage to your fob by trying take it apart. You can purchase a special tool for opening your key fob. However, you should adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer to avoid damaging the.
A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another frequent issue. This could be due to many things, including moisture or dirt getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or even an accidental firmware update can be the cause of this. If your key fob has stopped working completely, think about having it reprogrammed with locksmiths who specialize in this kind of work.
Radio interference is another possible cause. This can occur if 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.
There may be a need to replace a switch or another electrical component inside your key fob. This is a harder fix however, you can find online guides that will show you how to do it yourself. It is important to be cautious when doing this because the circuit boards in your key fob are tiny and can break easily if they are handled roughly. If you do this yourself, be certain to use a top quality SMT switch and then solder it to the correct place.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs can get lots of wear and tear. They're prone to being dropped and spend a lot of time moving around in your pocket or purse. The jolting can cause buttons to wear out or get stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that can detect when they've been pressed. They're designed to do this because they can help reduce the likelihood of someone stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when you press them, they're worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also contain an internal circuit board that sends signals to the car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged then the key fob you have may not allow you to unlock your car or even start the engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt or a scratch on the circuit board.
If you're having to press the buttons more than normal to activate them the fob's buttons are becoming worn out. Your fob could not be sending a signal to your car or have a lower range.
Contact a locksmith right away if you are unable to use your key fob to access your vehicle. They can determine if your key fob is damaged or if the cylinder of your ignition is worn out.
Luckily, most car key fob issues aren't a major or difficult issue. Keep an extra key fob in your car at all times to avoid being shocked by a malfunctioning device. This will ensure that you're never stuck in a bind because of an unreliable or lost key. If you lose your spare key an expert locksmith can rekey it to work with your vehicle's engine. They can also repair any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of your key fob does more than just protect the battery and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that does all the electrical magic every time you press the key fob button. This board takes the signal from your key fob, and then 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 dealership.
Another reason your key fob might not be working is because the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at your home. The good thing is that you can get a replacement battery online or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are many ways to open up a key fob to get inside it, depending on the type. You can determine the kind of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick internet search. You can then buy a new one, take the old one out, and then put 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. If you attempt to pry off the key fob with the screwdriver or another sharp edge, it can crack the plastic or damage the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can buy a complete fob assembly including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
If your key fob does not work, check if you have damaged the circuit board or batteries. If this isn't the situation, a professional could repair it quickly and inexpensively. If not, it could be time to invest in an upgrade. Make sure you check for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs that you purchase online.