Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Depending on how they’re kept and how often they get moved around, their buttons could get stuck or damaged.
Most key fob issues are simple to fix. However, there are some that are more complicated and require expert assistance. Locksmiths can be of great help in these situations.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have become quite smart however, that doesn’t mean they don’t occasionally find themselves in the “not responding” zone. When this happens, it’s time to replace the battery. However, that’s not always the solution to the issue, as you may also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector’s terminals.
The car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often install a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in such an emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch that is located behind the fob. (Check the user manual for further details). By pressing this button, you can open the fob and reveal a physical key you can use to unlock your car.
Another sign that your fob’s battery is dying is that you have to be closer to your car in order to open and lock it than you did before. The transmitter of the fob is depleted in energy when its battery is depleted. This reduces its range.
Replacing the battery is easy and fairly inexpensive. You’ll need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles the size of a small silver coin) and then follow the steps in the user manual to take out the old battery. Then, simply replace the new battery in the same way that the previous one was placed (the positive side should be facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob test its start, lock and unlock functions to ensure that the new battery was placed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw, or switch on the back, and then tearing the fob off. You’ll need the fob in order to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to cause damage! You can also take the key fob to an expert should you feel uncomfortable making it your own. Most auto shops will swap a fob’s battery at a minimal cost because it’s an everyday repair service. Some dealers will even offer it for free depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing you need to do if your key fob isn’t working is to replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and will likely resolve the problem. If your device is not working after a battery change it could be due to damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
Damage can happen to your car’s key fob for a variety of reasons, such as physical trauma, water exposure or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which will cause your car’s ignition to stop or doors from opening. If your fob is damaged it’s likely that you’ll require a professional to replace the component or the entire device.
The buttons on your device may have become worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber can wear away and make the buttons less springy or ‘clicky’ and eventually, they’ll begin to fail to detect your presses reliably. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, however, it is usually best to get the fob examined by a professional to make more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the new battery you’re using is a perfect match for your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or at many hardware stores, and you must always refer to your owner’s manual or engraving on the inside of your fob to determine which type of battery it needs. If the battery is not the right one for your needs, it may have issues transmitting strong signals and providing sufficient power to internal components.
In rare instances it could be the case that the issue isn’t the key fob itself but rather the vehicle’s receiver or electronic components. If you have an inductive backup system, you can test it by opening the door using the physical key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your physical key doesn’t open or start your car check with a mechanic the electronic and receiver components of your car to see whether they’re working properly.
Fob is damaged
A key fob has many components that function together, and one failure can cause other parts to fail. If a keyfob doesn’t work it’s crucial to check for obvious causes like cracks in the casing or a damaged component. Examine the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to make sure they are working properly.
If the fob for your key is damaged, you should obtain a replacement from your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of attempting to fix it. It might be necessary to reset the fob to connect to your car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.
The buttons on a key fob use contacts that transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, these contacts may wear out over time. This is more likely when you drop the fob or leave it in hot weather.
In time the internal wiring of the key fob may become worn down. This could result in a button not working when it’s pressed, or only working when it’s pressed very hard. It could also cause the car remote key repair not starting or unlocking when the fob is used.
The majority of fobs have a plastic cover that can be opened and safely cleaned with soap and water. This is a great way to restore a key fob to proper function and it’s a good practice to clean it regularly to prevent dirt from harming the insides.
A bad battery is the most common reason why a key fob won’t start or function. The majority of mechanics and car dealers are able to replace the batteries in a short time, but if you feel comfortable doing it yourself, you can purchase a battery at an hardware store or big-box retailer, and follow the instructions in the owner’s manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, for example cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or corroded or bent contact points for batteries. If any of these is the scenario, it’s a great idea to speak with an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice for a replacement and assistance in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob Is Not Programming
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your vehicle. When they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases, it could involve an intricate repair. The first step is to identify why the fob isn’t functioning properly.
The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it fails to recognize your vehicle. This is because the connection between the remote and your car is broken. You may be able to reset this connection without having to call a key fob repair service.
When the key fob is not sending a clear signal, other problems could be experienced. This could be the result of a key has been damaged or if the battery is not functioning properly. In either situation, attempt to reconnect the key with your vehicle. This can be done by following the directions provided with the key fob. Also, you should have a spare car keys in case the primary key is lost.
The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due to a weak battery in the car, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. With a remote tester, you can test the fob to determine if it’s the problem. If the tester does not light up when you press one of the buttons, it could be because the battery has to be replaced or key fob repair service the fob is been damaged.
Another possible reason for the fob not sending the right signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it. This can happen if the fob’s programming isn’t correct to your vehicle, or it’s an issue with the software.
If you are unable to fix the fob, or it’s not worth the effort to repair it, you should buy an entirely new one. Many online retailers offer affordable options, and some can be delivered right to your home.