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How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs can be damaged, even if we use them often. In fact, they are able to be destroyed in a variety of ways.
While the most common problem is an unresponsive battery however, other issues could be much more grave. Fortunately, many 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 fob stops working. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, especially when they are exposed to extreme heat or humid temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you need it.
It is easy to tell that your car key fob's battery is dying because the LED light will cease to glow. The key fob could also stop working at the same distance it was previously working to. In this case, the key fob may need to be reprogrammed or replaced completely.
Fortunately the replacement of a car key fob battery is simple. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is being used. The type of battery you are using should be stamped on the side of your key fob. Google can help when you're not sure. Unlock the key fob across the seam after you have identified the type of battery. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail to separate the two halves. Then, take out the old battery and put the new one in its place. Insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that their fob is dead until they attempt to lock and key repair near me or unlock their car and the buttons do not respond. In some cases this issue can be resolved by reprogramming the fob, however, it can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and see if they are able to jump your car remote key repair shop near me and get you back on the road.
If you have tried all of these options and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time to contact an expert. A qualified technician will be able to determine whether your car's computer system needs reprogramming or if the fob needs an upgrade in battery. They can also suggest an auto shop that will replace the fob that you use to access your car. Sometimes an entirely new fob might be the best option.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob is not indestructible, but it is able to withstand a lot of physical damage. The battery, circuit board, and buttons all get their fair amount of wear and tear over the course of time, so it's important to be vigilant and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob working well.
The easiest thing to check is to make sure the battery in your key fob isn't dead. Replace the battery to see if it fixes your problem. If this doesn't work, you might need to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. This can be a challenge because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms that allow you to open them up, and you can easily end up damaging your key fob if try to pull it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, but you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is a damaged or corrupted circuit board inside the key fob. This can be caused by numerous factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or an unintentional firmware update may be the cause of this. If your key fob is not functioning, you might want to consider having it reprogrammed. This can be accomplished by a locksmith that specializes in this kind of work.
Radio interference is also a possibility. This can occur in the event that you have other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency, like radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case you must contact the manufacturer of the other device to ensure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
There may be a need to replace a switch or other electrical component inside your key fob. This is a more difficult fix however, you can find online guides that will show you how to fix it yourself. It's important to be careful when you do this it is important to be careful, since the circuit boards inside your key fob are small and are susceptible to breaking in the event of rough handling. If you decide to 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 can suffer lots of wear and tear. They're susceptible to being dropped and often spend a lot of time moving around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause buttons to wear out or become stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the issue.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that are able to detect when they've been hit. They're designed to do this to lower the risk of someone stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when pressed, they are worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also contain a circuit board inside them that sends signals to the car key fob repair near me. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well instructions to start the engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged then your key fob may not allow you to unlock your car or even start the engine. This kind of damage is usually caused by blunt force or water.
You'll be able to tell that the buttons on your key fob are wearing out If you're finding yourself pressing the buttons more than usual to get them to function. Additionally, your fob may stop sending a signal to the car or have less range than it did prior to.
If you're not able to unlock your key fob, unlock or start your car, it's important to find a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able determine whether the key fob itself is damaged or the ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of car key fob issues aren't too serious or complex. Keep an extra key fob in your car at all times to avoid being shocked by a malfunctioning key. You'll never be caught in the middle due to a malfunctioning or lost key. Of course, if you do lose your spare car key, a locksmith will be able to rekey it so that it works with your car's ignition. They'll also be able fix any internal damage that's occurred on your key fob.
Broken Case
A key fob's case is more than just a place to store the buttons and battery. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for all the electrical magic when you hit the button on your key fob. This board receives the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.
The key fob won't work if the board is damaged. A dead key fob might only need to be reprogrammed by a local auto locksmith or dealer.
Batteries could be the cause the key fob's not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The good thing is that you can find an alternative battery online or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob you have, there are a variety of ways to open it and get inside. A quick internet search should reveal what kind of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it requires. You can then buy a new replacement and pop the old one out and then insert the new one into.
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 pry off the key fob with an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it could crack the plastic or break the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can purchase the entire fob including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob does not work, check if you have damaged the circuit board or batteries. If this is not the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and cheaply by an expert. In the event that it isn't, it's the time to purchase a replacement. Make sure you check the warranty of any fob replacement or used purchased online.
