How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we test them a lot keys are not impervious to destruction. They are able to be destroyed in different ways.
While the most common problem is the battery being dead but other issues can be much more serious. Luckily, most of them can be resolved with a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is likely the most common reason why the car key fob stops functioning. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially when they are exposed or cold temperatures, humidity, or water. It is a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet just in case.
The LED light will generally stop blinking when the battery in your car key fob is low. It's also possible that the fob will no longer work from the same distance it did in the past. In this case, the key fob may need to be reprogrammed or replaced completely.
Fortunately replacing the battery in a car key fob is simple. Find out the type of battery used. The type should be embossed on the side of the fob. If you're unsure, a quick Google search can help. The key fob can be opened along the seam once you've identified the type of battery. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to break the two halves. Take the old battery out, and replace it with a new one. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up toward the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers don't realize that their fob is dead until they lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons no longer work. In some instances, this can be solved by reprogramming your fob, however, this can be expensive and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and see if they can jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.
If you've tried both solutions and your vehicle still won't turn on, it's time to call an expert. A certified technician can determine the computer in your car needs reprogramming, or if the fob simply needs an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend an auto repair shop that can replace your key fob. In the end sometimes, a brand new fob is the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
Key fobs aren't impervious to destruction, but it can withstand a lot of physical damage. Battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these parts to ensure that your key fob is in good condition.
The easiest way to test is that the battery in the key fob isn't dying. Replace the battery to see if it fixes your issue. If not, you'll have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It isn't easy to open some key fobs since they don't have an easy release mechanism. You may cause damage to the fob by trying to break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, however you must always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be due to a number of things, such as moisture or dirt that gets into the battery compartment software, hardware issues or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob isn't functioning completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed with a locksmith that specializes in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen if you have other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency, for example, radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation, you should get in touch with the manufacturer of the other device to ensure that your key fob won't be 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. You can find online guides that show you how to fix this yourself. You should be careful to be careful, however, since the circuit board inside your key fob is very small and is prone to breaking when handled rough. If you're doing this yourself, make sure to use a good quality SMT switch and then solder it to the correct place.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are prone to a lot wear and wear and tear. They are prone to getting dropped and spend a lot of time being jostled in your pocket or purse. Sometimes, this can cause the buttons to wear out or become stuck. When this happens, a simple adjustment may be all it takes to restore the button's functionality.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that detect when they've been hit. They're made to do this because they can help decrease the chance of someone stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when pressed, they are damaged and should be replaced.
Key fobs also contain a circuit board inside them that sends signals to the car. The signals include commands to unlock and lock and also commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged then the key fob you have may not unlock your vehicle or start the engine. car key fob repairs of damage is usually caused by water or blunt force.
If you're having to press the buttons more than normal to make them function If this is the case, then your key fob's buttons are becoming worn out. Your fob could also stop sending a signal to your car or have a smaller range.
If you're unable unlock your key fob, unlock or start your vehicle, it's crucial to contact an emergency locksmith in your area. They can tell if the key fob is damaged or if the cylinder in your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, most key fobs for cars problems aren't complicated or serious. The best way to avoid being caught off guard by an unresponsive key fob is to keep an extra key in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're not trapped in a place due to the loss or malfunction of your key. Of course, if you do happen to lose your car key spare, a locksmith will be able to change the key to ensure it is compatible with the ignition in your car. 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 performs all the electrical magic whenever you press the button on your key fob. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.
The key fob won't work if this board is damaged. Sometimes a dead key fob can be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.
Batteries could be the cause the key fob's not working. This is a simple fix that you can do at home by replacing the battery. The positive side is that you can get an alternative battery online or at your local auto parts store, since the batteries aren't limited to key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob you have, there are various ways to open it and get inside. A quick search on the internet will reveal what kind of key fob yours is and the type of battery it uses. From there, you can buy an alternative and then simply pop the old one out and the new one in.
The most important thing to consider when fixing a broken car key fob is that you don't want to cause damage to the circuit board or buttons further. If you attempt to remove the fob using a hard edge like a screwdriver can damage the case or even damage the plastic. A replacement case isn't much and you can purchase an entire fob, including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
If your key fob isn't functioning Check to see if the batteries are depleted or if the circuit board has become damaged. If this isn't the situation, a professional could repair it quickly and inexpensively. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you purchase online.