How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs can become damaged even if we use them often. In fact, they can break down in a variety of ways.
Other issues could be more grave than a dead battery. Fortunately, Web Site of these can be fixed by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is likely the most common reason the car key fob stop functioning. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially if they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
The LED light will generally stop glowing when the battery in the car key fob is low. The key fob could also stop working at the same distance it used to. In this scenario it might be necessary to reprogram the key fob or replace it altogether.
Fortunately the replacement of a car key fob battery is simple. First, determine what kind of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of the fob. If you're unsure, doing a quick Google search will be helpful. Open the key fob across the seam after you have identified the type of battery. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or even your fingernail to pry the two halves apart. Then, you can remove the old battery and put a new one in its place. Place the new battery in such a way 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 don't work anymore. This can be corrected by reprogramming the fob. However it could be time-consuming and expensive. Another option is to contact 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 and your car still doesn't start, it's the right time to call a professional. A trained technician can tell whether your car's computer requires changing its programming, or if the fob is only in need of an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your key fob. Sometimes, however, a new fob could be the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob is not indestructible, but it is able to be able to withstand a variety of physical harm. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all subject to wear and wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these components to ensure that your key fob is in good condition.
The easiest way to test is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't dead. If it is, replace the battery and determine if this fixes the problem. If not, you'll need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be difficult since some key fobs do not have a release mechanism that is easy to open them up, and you can easily damage your fob if you attempt to break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, but you should always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.
Another issue that is common is a damaged or faulty circuit board inside the key fob. This can be due to various factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment, software issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob has stopped functioning, you might think about getting it reprogrammed. This can be accomplished by a locksmith that specializes in this kind of work.
Radio interference is a different possibility. This could happen if you have other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, consult with other manufacturers of the device to make sure that your key fob's signal isn't affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob may have an issue with the switch or another electrical component that should be replaced. This is a difficult fix, but you can find guides online that explain how to fix it yourself. You should be careful when doing this, however, because the circuit board that is inside the key fob is tiny and can easily break if handled roughly. If you do this yourself, be sure to use a good quality SMT switch and solder it in place correctly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot wear and wear and tear. They're prone to being dropped, and they often spend a lot of time jostled around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jolting can cause the buttons to become worn out or snagged. A simple adjustment can solve the problem.
Most modern key fobs come with sensors that detect if they've been pressed. They're designed to detect this so that they can decrease the chance of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when you press them, they're damaged and should be replaced.
Key fobs also have an electronic circuit inside which transmits signals to your car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands, as well as commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then the key fob you have may not unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, blunt force or something that scratches the circuit board.
If you're having to press the buttons harder than usual to get them to function If this is the case, then your fob's buttons are getting worn out. In addition, your fob may stop transmitting a signal to the car, or have less range than it did prior to.
Contact a locksmith right away if you are unable to use your key fob to start your car. They'll be able determine whether the key fob itself is damaged or if your ignition cylinder has worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of car keyfob issues aren't very complicated or even serious. Keep an extra key fob in your vehicle at all times to avoid being thrown off by a malfunctioning one. You'll never be caught in the middle because of an unresponsive or lost key. Of course, if you do lose your car key spare A locksmith can rekey it so that it works with the ignition in your car. They'll also be able fix any internal damage that's been caused to the key fob.
Broken Case
A key fob's case provides more than just protection for the buttons and battery. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you hit a button on your key fob. This board receives the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.
Your 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 that the batteries are dead. This is a quick fix that you can do at home by replacing the battery. You can purchase a replacement battery at your local auto parts shop or on the internet. These batteries are not just for key fobs.
There are a variety of ways to open the key fob and go inside it, based on the type. A quick internet search should identify the type of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it takes. You can then purchase an alternative and take the old one out, and put the new one in.
The most important thing to consider when fixing the broken 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 an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it could break the plastic or damage the case. Fortunately, a replacement case is cheap and you can get the entire fob and the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob does not function, make sure you've damaged the circuit board or batteries. If this isn't the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and easily by a professional. 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.