How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Even though we put them through a lot keys aren't impervious to destruction. In fact, they could break down in a variety of ways.

Other issues could be more serious than the battery being dead. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be solved by a simple DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is probably the most common reason why the car key fob stop working. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity or water. It's a good idea keep an extra battery in your wallet in case.

The LED light will usually cease to blink when the battery in the car key fob is running low. It is also possible that the fob won't function from the same distance it used to. In this case the key fob could need to be reprogrammed or replaced entirely.

It is easy to replace the battery in a car keyfob. Find out the kind of battery used. The type of battery you are using should be engraved on the side of your key fob. If you are not sure then an easy Google search will be helpful. Once you have found the type of battery and the key fob, you can open it at the junction. You will need to use a small flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to split the two halves. Then, remove the old battery and put an alternative one in its place. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not be aware the fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons aren't responding. In some instances this problem can be resolved by reprogramming the fob, however, this can be expensive and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to find out if they are able to start your car and get it back on the road.

If you've tried every solution but your vehicle doesn't start, it's time to speak with a professional. A qualified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires reconfiguring, or if your key fob only requires a new battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto repair shop to replace your key fob. In the end, sometimes a brand new fob is the most effective solution.

Circuit Board Damage

Key fobs can withstand many physical abuses and isn't indestructible. The battery, circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair share of wear and tear with time It is therefore essential to be aware and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob operating efficiently.

The easiest thing to check is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't dead. If it is replaced, determine if this fixes the issue. If this does not work, you might need to open the fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be a challenge since some key fobs don't have a release mechanism that is easy to open them and you could damage your fob if you try to pull it apart. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.

A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is a frequent issue. This could be due to various factors, including moisture or dirt getting into the battery compartment. Issues with software or an accident firmware update could also cause this. If your automotive key repair fob has stopped working completely, you should consider having it reprogrammed by locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.

Radio interference is another possibility. This can happen if there are other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency as your key fob, such a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case, check with the other manufacturers of your device to make sure that your key fob isn't being affected by their signals.

It's also possible that your key fob may have a bad switch or other electrical component that must be replaced. This is a more difficult fix however, there are guides online that explain how to fix it yourself. Be careful to be careful, however, since the circuit board that is inside the key fob is tiny and can easily break if handled with care. If you're doing it yourself, be 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 can suffer lots of wear and tear. They're prone to being dropped, and they often are frequently being tossed around in your pocket or purse. This jostling can sometimes cause the buttons to wear down or become stuck. When this happens an easy adjustment could be all it takes to make it work again.

Most modern key fobs come with sensors on them that can detect if they've been pressed. They're designed to detect this so that they can reduce the likelihood of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when pressed, they are worn out and should be replaced.

The circuit board inside the key fob 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 your key fob might not be able to unlock your vehicle or start the engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt or a scratch on the circuit board.

You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating when you press them harder than normal to get them to function. Additionally the fob might cease transmitting signals to the car or have less range than before.

Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are not able where to Repair car key remote use the key fob to start your car. They can determine if the key fob is damaged, or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.

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 key. This will ensure that you're not trapped in a place due to the loss or malfunction of your key. If you do happen to lose your car key spare, a locksmith can help reset it to work with the ignition of your car. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that has been caused to your key fob.

Broken Case

The case of your key fob is more than just a place to store the battery and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that does all the electrical magic whenever you press a key fob button. This board receives the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.

If this board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to function. A key fob that is dead may require reprogramming by a local auto locksmith, or dealership.

Another reason why your key fob might not be working is because the batteries are not working. This is a simple solution that can be done at home by replacing the battery. The positive side 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.

Depending on the type of key fob you have, there are various ways to open it and access the insides. You can find out what type of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick online search. From there, you can purchase a replacement and easily pop the old one out and put the new one in.

The biggest concern when repairing the broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. If you attempt to pry off the key fob with a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could break the plastic or break the case. Fortunately, a replacement for the case is inexpensive and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronic components from 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 that's not the case, a professional can repair key it for you quickly and cheaply. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty on any fob replacement or used that you purchase online.