How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we use them a lot, key fobs are not impervious to destruction. They can actually be destroyed in a variety of ways.
Other issues can be more grave than the battery being dead. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be solved with a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent cause of a key fob not working. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed to extreme heat or humid temperatures or water. It's a good idea keep an extra battery in your wallet just in case.
The LED light will generally stop glowing when the battery in your car key fob is low. It's also possible that the fob won't work at the same distance it did in the past. In this scenario, the key fob may need to be programmed again or replaced entirely.
It is easy to replace the car keyfob battery. First, determine what kind of battery is being used. The type of battery should be engraved on the side of the fob. Google can help in case you're unsure. Open the key fob along the seam after you have identified the type of battery. You will need to use an small screwdriver with a flat head or even your fingernail to pry the two halves apart. Then, you can remove the battery that was removed and replace it with the new one in its place. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing up toward the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that the fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons aren't responding. In some cases, this can be solved by reprogramming the fob, however, it can be costly and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to see whether they can jumpstart your car and get it back on the road.
If you've tried all the options and your car still doesn't start, it's time to speak with an expert. A certified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires reprogramming, or if the fob only requires an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend an auto repair shop that can replace your key fob. In the end, though sometimes, a brand new fob is the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob is not impervious to destruction, but it can endure a lot of physical harm. The battery, the circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair share of wear and tear over time and it's crucial to be vigilant and take care of them to keep your car key fob working efficiently.
The most straightforward thing to do is to ensure that the battery inside the key fob isn't dying. If it is then replace the battery and check if it fixes your issue. If not, you might 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 unlock them and you could harm your device if you attempt to break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, however you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.
Another issue that is common is a damaged or corrupted circuit board inside the key fob. This can be due to many things, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob isn't working completely, you should consider having it reprogrammed by a locksmith that specializes in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen in the event that you have other wireless devices around that transmit on the same frequency, like radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case you must get in touch with the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
It is also possible to replace a switch or another electrical component of your key fob. This is a harder fix however, there are online guides that will show you how to do it yourself. Be cautious when doing this, however, because the circuit board inside your key fob is small and could easily break if handled with care. If you do this yourself, be sure to use a high quality SMT switch and then solder it in place correctly.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are prone to quite a bit of wear and tear. They are susceptible to being dropped and spend a lot of time in your pocket or purse. This jostling can sometimes cause the buttons to wear down or get stuck. A simple adjustment can fix the issue.
The majority of modern key fobs have sensors on them that can detect if they've been pressed. They're designed to detect this so that they can lower the risk of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when pushed, that's an indication that they're worn out and need to be replaced.
The circuit board inside the key fob also transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, and commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then the key fob you have may not allow you to unlock your car or start the engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt or a scratch on the circuit board.
If you're forced to press the buttons harder than usual in order to activate them If this is the case, then your fob's buttons are wearing out. In addition your fob could cease transmitting signals to the car, or have less range than before.
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 the cylinder of your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, most car key fob problems aren't too serious or complex. The best way to ensure you don't get caught off guard by an unresponsive key fob is to keep a spare in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're not stuck in a bind because of the loss or malfunction of your key. If you do happen to lose your spare car key, a locksmith can help reset it to ensure it is compatible with the ignition of your car. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that has been caused to the key fob.
Broken Case
The case for your key fob does more than just protect the battery and buttons. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for doing all of the electrical magic when you hit a button on your key fob. This board transmits the signal from your key fob to your car.
If key fob repairs is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to operate. Sometimes, a key fob that is dead can be reprogrammed, which is something your local auto locksmith or dealership can assist 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 locate the replacement battery on the internet or at a local auto parts shop since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are a variety of ways to open up a key fob to get inside it, based on the type. You can find out what type of battery your key fob uses by conducting a quick online search. You can then purchase a new replacement and pop the old one out and then insert the new one into.
The most important thing to consider when fixing the broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. If you attempt to pull apart the key fob using a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could crack the plastic or damage the case. Luckily, a replacement case is inexpensive and you can buy the entire fob and the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob won't work, you should check if you have damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this isn't the case, a professional can fix it quickly and cost-effectively. In the event that it isn't, it's time to invest in a replacement. Be sure to check the warranty of any fob replacement or used that you purchase on the internet.