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How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs can become damaged, even if we use them a lot. They can actually break down in various ways.
Other issues could be more serious than the battery being dead. Luckily, most of these can be fixed by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is likely the most common reason why a car key repairs near me key fob stops working. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially if they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, or water. It's a good idea keep an extra fob battery in your wallet just in case.
You will usually know when your car key fob's battery is depleted because the LED light will cease to blink. It's also possible that your key fob won't function at the same distance it did in the past. In this case the key fob might need to be reprogrammed or replaced completely.
Fortunately replacing the car key fob battery is easy. Find out the kind of battery used. The type of battery should be stamped on the back of your automotive key repair fob. Google can help in case you're unsure. Once you've found the kind of battery you want you want to use, open the key fob at the seam. You'll need a small flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail pry the two halves apart. Take the old battery out, and replace it with a new one. Make sure you insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers may not realize the fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons don't respond. In some cases this problem can be resolved by reprogramming the fob but that can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and ask them to jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.
If you have tried all of these options but your car won't start then it's time to contact an expert. A certified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires reconfiguring, or if your key fob only requires replacement batteries. They may also recommend an auto shop that will replace your key fob. In the end sometimes, a brand new fob is the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
Key fobs aren't indestructible, but it can be able to withstand a variety of physical harm. The battery, circuit board and buttons will all experience their fair amount of wear and tear over time and it's crucial to be aware and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob operating well.
The easiest thing to check is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't depleted. If it is, replace the battery and check if it fixes your issue. If not, you'll need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be tricky because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms to open them up, and you can easily damage your fob if you try to pull it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, but you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or corrupted key circuit board for the fob is another common problem. This could be due to various factors, including moisture or dirt getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or an accidental firmware update can be the cause of this. If your key fob has stopped working completely, think about having it reprogrammed by an expert locksmith who specializes in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen if you have other wireless devices around that transmit at the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, inquire with the other manufacturers of the device to make sure that your key fob isn't affected by their signals.
It is also possible to replace a switch or an electrical component of your key fob. This is a more difficult fix however, there are guides online that show you how to do it yourself. Be cautious, however, as the circuit board inside your key fob is very small and is prone to breaking if handled roughly. If you're doing it yourself, be sure to make use of an SMT switch that is of high-quality and then solder the switch into place in a proper manner.
Buttons that are worn out
emergency car key repair key fobs are susceptible to a lot of wear and tear. They're prone to being dropped and are frequently being tossed around in your pocket or purse. This jostling can sometimes cause buttons to wear out or get stuck. When this happens, a simple adjustment may be all that's needed to get it working again.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that are able to detect when they've been hit. This is because they reduce the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't work when you press them, they're worn out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board that is in the key fob also sends signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well instructions to start the engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged, your key fob might not be able to unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, force blunt, or something scratching the circuit board.
If you're having to press the buttons harder than usual in order to get them to function, then your key fob buttons are getting worn out. The fob may not be sending an alert to your car or have a smaller range.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to use your key fob for your vehicle. They can tell if the key fob is damaged, or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Luckily, most car key fob problems aren't a major or difficult issue. Keep a spare key fob in your vehicle at all times to avoid being shocked by a malfunctioning device. You'll never be caught in the middle because of a malfunctioning or lost key. If you do lose your car key spare A locksmith can change the key to work with the ignition in your car. They can also repair any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of a key fob does more than just shield the batteries and buttons. It also houses the circuit board responsible for all the electrical magic when you hit a button on your key fob. This board transmits the signal from your key fob to your remote control car key repairs.
Your key fob won't function if the board is damaged. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead may need to be reprogrammed, which is something your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.
Another reason your key fob may not be working is because the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at your home. You can get a replacement battery at your local auto parts shop or on the internet. These batteries aren't just for key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob, there is a variety of ways to open it up and get inside. A quick internet search should reveal what kind of key fob yours is and the type of battery it requires. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
The most important thing to consider when fixing a broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. If you attempt to pry away the key fob with an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it could crack the plastic or damage the case. A replacement case is inexpensive and you can buy the entire fob including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob doesn't work look into whether the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board has been damaged. If that's not the case, a professional can fix it quickly and cheaply. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Make sure you check the warranty on any replacement or used fobs that you purchase on the internet.