How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs can become damaged even if we utilize them often. In fact, they are able to break down in a variety of ways.
While the most common issue is a dead battery but other issues can be more serious. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be solved by a simple DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most common reason for the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed or cold temperatures, humidity or even water. It's a good idea keep an extra battery in your wallet just in case.
It is easy to tell the moment the battery in your car key fob is depleted by the fact that the LED light will cease to glow. It is also possible that the fob will no longer work from the same distance it did in the past. In this case the key fob might need to be reprogrammed or replaced completely.
It is simple to replace the battery in a car keyfob. Find out the type of battery used. The type of battery should be engraved on the side of the fob. Google can help you if you're not sure. Open the key fob along the seam once you have identified the type of battery. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or your fingernail to split the two halves. Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one. 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 your fob. However, it can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and ask them to jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you've tried all of these options and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time to contact a professional. A certified technician can determine if your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or if the fob requires a replacement battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto repair shop to replace your fob's key. Sometimes it is possible that a new fob might be the best solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
Key fobs can withstand many physical abuses and is not indestructible. Battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these components to ensure your key fob remains in good condition.
Check that the battery is still functioning in your key fob. If it is, replace the battery and determine if this fixes the problem. If not, repair car key 'll need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge since some key fobs do not have a release mechanism that is easy to open them up and you could end up damaging your key fob if try to pull it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however you must always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be caused by numerous factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Issues with software or an unintentional firmware update may also cause this. If your key fob has stopped functioning, you might want to consider having it replaced. This can be done by a locksmith who is skilled in this work.
Radio interference is another possibility. This can occur if you have other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, inquire with the other manufacturers of your device to ensure that your key fob isn't being affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob may have an unreliable switch or electrical component that needs to be replaced. There are online guides that guide you through the process of fixing this yourself. Be cautious when doing this, though it is important to be careful, since the circuit boards that are inside the key fob are tiny and easily break when handled rough. If you're doing it yourself, make sure to make use of an SMT switch of good quality and then solder the switch into place in a proper manner.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are prone to a lot wear and tear. They are prone to being dropped and often spend a lot of time jostled around in your pocket or purse. The jolting can cause buttons to wear out or get stuck. A simple adjustment can fix the issue.
Modern key fobs are fitted with sensors that are able to detect when they have been pressed. They're designed to detect this because they can help lower the risk of someone stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when you press them it's a sign that they're worn-out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board in the key fob also transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well commands to start the engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, your key fob may not allow you to unlock or start your engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.
You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are wearing out when you press the buttons more than usual to get them to function. The fob may be unable to send an alert to your car or have a lower range.
Contact a locksmith right away if you are not able to use your key fob to start your vehicle. They'll be able determine whether the key fob itself is damaged or if your ignition cylinder has worn down.
Luckily, most car key fob issues aren't serious or complicated. Keep a spare key fob in your car always in case you end up being surprised by a malfunctioning one. This will ensure that you're never stuck in a bind because of the loss or malfunction of your key. If you lose your spare key a professional locksmith can reset it to work with your car's engine. They can also repair any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case for your key fob is more than just a place to store the battery and buttons. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for doing all of the electrical magic when you press the button on your key fob. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.
More Support won't work if the board is damaged. A key fob that is dead may require reprogramming by your local auto locksmith, or dealer.
Another reason your key fob might not be working is that the batteries are dying. This is a quick solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. The good news is that you can find the replacement battery online or at your local auto parts store since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
There are many ways to open up the key fob and go inside it, based on the type. You can find out what type of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick internet search. You can then buy an alternative and take the old one out, and then put the new one in.
The main concern when you repair a broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. If you attempt to remove the fob using a hard edge like a screwdriver could cause damage to the case or scratch the plastic. A replacement case is inexpensive and you can find the entire fob including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
If your key fob doesn't work look into whether the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty of any replacement or used fobs purchased online.
