13 Things You Should Know About Key Fob Repair Service That You Might Not Have Considered
13 Things You Should Know About Key Fob Repair Service That You Might Not Have Considered
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Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how much they are jostled.
The majority of key fob issues are easy to fix. However, there are some that are more complicated and require assistance from a professional. This is where a locksmith can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite smart however that doesn't mean they don't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding" zone. If this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. However, this doesn't always fix the issue, as you may also have a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this issue, so they usually put a spare mechanical key inside the fob in case of such an emergency. To access this, locate the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for specifics). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob and gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be much closer to the car to unlock and open it than you did before. This is because the fob's transmitter loses strength as its battery ages, limiting its range of operation.
It's relatively simple to replace the battery. Be sure to purchase a button cell battery (which looks like tiny silver coins) for your fob, and follow the user manual or video instructions on how to take out the old one. Replace the battery in the same direction that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards toward the buttons). Test the lock/unlock, and start the functions of your fob after reassembling it. Make sure the battery has been installed correctly.
You can open some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch on the back and prying the fob in two. Be careful not to break the fob because you'll need it to connect to your car! If you're not confident in making this change yourself it's also possible to bring your key fob to an expert. Since it's a routine service that most auto shops will change the battery on the fob for a small charge. Some dealers may even do it for no cost depending on the model and make of your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Working
The first thing you should do when your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the easiest solution and will fix the problem. If your device is not functioning after a battery change, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires the attention of a professional.
The key fob in your car can be damaged for many reasons, such as physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded board. These issues may prevent your key from communicating with the car's receiver and prevent your car's doors or ignition from unlocking or even starting. If your fob has been damaged, it's likely that you'll need a professional to replace the component or the entire device.
Similarly, the buttons on your device could have worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber may wear out, making the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your press. You can try wiping the buttons and adjusting them to see if this fixes the problem However, it's generally recommended to send the fob to have it professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
Check that the battery you are using is the right one for your fob. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Check the owner's manual or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If the battery is not the correct fit it could have problems transmitting strong signals and supplying sufficient power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be the case that the issue is not with your key fob but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the doors with an actual key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if available). If your physical key does not open or start your car, you should have an expert check the receiver and electronic components to ensure they're working correctly.
Fob Is Damaged
A key fob is comprised of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a key fob ceases to function, it's important that you check for obvious causes like a cracked casing or a broken component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to make sure they are working properly.
If the key fob is damaged, you should obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of trying to repair it. It might be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is more likely when you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
The internal wiring of a key fob could also wear out over time. This can result in buttons that don't function when pressed, or can be used when pressed extremely strongly. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able start or unlock once the fob is pressed.
Most key fobs come with a plastic cover which can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This is often able to bring a fob back to proper function and it's a great idea to do this often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.
A damaged battery is usually the reason for a key fob to not work or turn on. The majority of mechanics and car dealers mobile car key repair are able to replace the batteries in a short time however, if you're at ease doing it yourself you can buy a battery at the hardware store or a big-box retailer and follow the instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks small electronic components that aren't fully attached to the circuit boards or bent and corroded contact points on the battery. If you notice any of these problems, you should consult an auto locksmith or dealer to obtain a new key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is an easy way to start your engine and open the doors of your vehicle. When they stop working, or work intermittently, they can be frustrating. In some cases the problem is solved by replacing the battery. However, in other situations it may require a more intricate repair. The first step is to identify the reason for why the fob isn't functioning correctly.
The most common reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your car is broken. You can sometimes reset this connection without having to call repair of your key fob.
If the key fob not sending a clear signal, other issues could be experienced. This could be the result of a key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to reconnect your key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the instructions provided with the key fob. Also, you should carry a spare car key in case your primary key is lost.
The fob might not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This can be caused by an insufficient car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. Using a remote tester, you can test the fob and see if it is the issue. If the tester doesn't illuminate when any of the buttons are press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.
Another reason why the fob not transmitting a strong enough signal is that the car's immobilizer system may be hindering it from doing so. This could happen if the fob isn't properly programmed to your vehicle, or it's an issue with the software.
If you aren't able to resolve the issue, or it's not worth the effort of trying to repair the fob, you should look into buying a replacement. Many online retailers offer cheap options and some are delivered to your residence.