How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we use them numerous times keys are not impervious to destruction. They can be destroyed in various ways.
Other issues could be more serious than the battery being dead. Most of these issues can be solved with a simple fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most common cause of the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries can deplete quickly, especially if they are exposed to extreme heat or cold temperatures, humidity, or water. It is a good idea to keep an extra fob battery in your wallet just in case.
It is easy to tell that the battery in your car key fob is running low because the light on the LED will cease to glow. The key fob could also stop working from the same distance it used to. In this scenario the key fob could need to be reprogrammed or replaced altogether.
Fortunately, replacing a car key fob battery is easy. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is being used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of the fob. If you're not sure it is, doing a quick Google search can help. Once you have found the kind of battery you want and the key fob, you can open it near the seam. You will need to use an small screwdriver with a flat head or even your fingernail break the two halves. Remove the old battery and replace it with a brand new one. Make sure you insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing towards the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that the fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons aren't responding. In some instances, this can be solved by reprogramming the fob, however, it can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and see if they are able to jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.
If you have tried all three of these methods but your car won't start, then it's time to contact an expert. A certified technician will be able to determine if the car's computer system needs reprogramming or if the fob needs a new battery. They will also suggest a reputable auto shop to replace your fob's keys. Sometimes, however, a new fob may be the best option.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob is not indestructible, but it can be able to withstand a variety of physical harm. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all subject to wear and tear. It is important to take care of these parts to keep your key fob in good working order.
Make sure that the battery still functioning in your key fob. If it is replaced, check if it fixes your problem. If not, you might have to remove 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 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.
A damaged or damaged key fob circuit board is a frequent issue. This can be due to various factors, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems, or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob is not functioning, you might think about having it replaced. This can be done by a locksmith who specializes in this kind of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. This can happen if there are other wireless devices transmitting on the same frequency as your key fob, such a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case, consult with other device manufacturers to ensure that your key fob's signal isn't affected by their signals.
You may also need to replace a switch or other electrical component inside your key fob. You can find online guides that guide you through the process of fixing this yourself. Be cautious, however, as the circuit board that is inside your key fob is small and can easily break if handled with care. If you're doing it yourself, ensure you make use of an SMT switch of good quality and solder the switch in place in a proper manner.
In a state of wear Out Buttons
Car key fobs can get a lot of wear and tear. They're susceptible to being dropped and are frequently jostled around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this can cause the buttons to wear out or stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that are able to detect when they've been press. They're made to do this so that they can lower the risk of someone stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when you press them, they're damaged and should be replaced.
Key fobs also contain an electronic circuit inside that sends signals to the car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands and commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged, the key fob you have may not unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. Typically, key fob repair of damage is caused by water, blunt force or something that scratches the circuit board.
If you have to press the buttons harder than usual to make them function the fob's buttons are getting worn out. In addition your fob could stop transmitting a signal to the car or have a lower range than it did before.
If you're not able to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, it's important to call a locksmith near you immediately. They can determine 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 too difficult or serious. The best way to ensure you don't get caught off guard by an unresponsive key fob is to have a spare in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're never trapped in a place due to an unreliable or lost key. If you do happen to lose your spare car key, a locksmith can help change the key so that it works with your car's ignition. They can also repair any internal damage to the key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob does more than just protect the batteries and buttons. It also houses the circuit board responsible for doing all of the electrical magic when you hit the button on your key fob. The circuit board relays the signal from your key fob to your car.
If the board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to function. A key fob that is dead may only need to be reprogrammed by a local auto locksmith, or dealer.
Another reason your key fob may not be working is that the batteries are dead. The battery can be replaced at home. You can find the replacement battery from your local auto parts shop or on the internet. These batteries aren't only for key fobs.
There are a variety of ways to open a key fob to get inside, based on the kind. You can determine what kind of battery your key fob has by conducting a quick internet search. From there, you can purchase an alternative and then simply pop the old one out, and then the new one in.
The biggest concern when repairing an old car key fob is that you don't want to cause damage to the circuit board or buttons further. When you try to break a key fob with a hard edge like a screwdriver could cause damage to the case or crack the plastic. Luckily, a replacement case is cheap and you can buy a whole fob assembly with the electronics from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob does not work, you should check if you have damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this is not the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any used or replacement fobs you buy on the internet.