How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Although we use them numerous times, key fobs are not indestructible. In fact, they could break down in a variety of ways.

Other issues can be more important than a dead battery. Luckily, most of these issues can be solved with a quick DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is likely the most common reason why a car key fob stops functioning. Fob batteries are known to drain quickly, especially if they are exposed or humid temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.

You can usually tell when the battery in your car key fob is depleted because the LED light will stop glowing. It's also possible that the fob will no longer work from the same distance as it did in the past. In this scenario, the key fob may need to be reprogrammed or replaced entirely.

It is easy to replace a car keyfob battery. First, you need to determine the type of battery is used. The type should be embossed on the back of the fob. Google can help when you're not sure. Open the key fob along the seam once you have identified the battery type. Use a flathead screwdriver, or your fingernail to separate the two halves. Then, you can remove the old battery and insert an alternative one in its place. Place the new battery in such a way that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not be aware the fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons do not respond. This can be fixed by reprogramming your fob. However it can be costly and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to find out whether they can start your vehicle and get it back on the road.

If you've tried all three of these methods and your car still won't start, then it's time to contact a professional. A qualified technician will be able to determine whether your car's computer system needs reprogramming or if the fob requires a new battery. They may also recommend an auto shop to replace the fob that you use to access your car key repair cost. Sometimes, however, a new fob may be the best option.

Damaged Circuit Board

Key fobs can withstand some physical abuse and is not indestructible. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is important to take care of these parts to keep your key fob in good working order.

The easiest way to test is that the battery in your key fob isn't dead. If it is replaced, check if it fixes your issue. If this doesn't work, you may have to open the fob and clean the contact surfaces. It isn't easy to open certain key fobs because they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You could damage your fob by trying break it. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, but it is recommended to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.

A damaged or damaged key fob circuit board is another frequent issue. This can be caused by a number of things like dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems, or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob isn't working, you may think about having it reprogrammed. This can be done by a locksmith who is skilled in this 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, for example, radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation, you should get in touch with the manufacturer of the other device to ensure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.

It is also possible to replace a switch or another electrical component in your key fob. There are online guides that will help you fix this yourself. You should be careful when doing this, however, because the circuit board in your key fob is small and can easily break when handled rough. If you do this yourself, make certain to use a top quality SMT switch and then solder it to the correct place.

Buttons that are worn out

Car key fobs are prone to a lot wear and tear. They are susceptible to being lost and spend a significant amount of time being tossed around in your purse or damaged pocket. Sometimes, this jolting can cause buttons to wear out or stuck. A simple adjustment can solve the issue.

Most modern key fobs have sensors that detect if they've been pressed. This is due to the fact that they decrease the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when you press them, they're damaged and should be replaced.

The circuit board inside the key fob transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, and commands to start the engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, then your key fob will not unlock or start your engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt, or something scratching the circuit board.

If you're having to press the buttons more than usual to make them function, then your fob's buttons are getting worn out. Your fob could be unable to send an alert to your car or have a lower range.

If you're not able to get your key fob to unlock or start your vehicle, it's crucial to contact an emergency locksmith in your area. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob itself is damaged or the ignition cylinder is worn out.

Fortunately, most car keyfob issues aren't very complicated or even serious. Keep an extra key fob in your car at all times to avoid being surprised by a malfunctioning device. You'll never be stranded due to an unresponsive or lost key. If you lose your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your car key remote repair's engine. They can also fix any internal damage to the key fob.

Broken Case

A key fob's case provides more than just protection for the buttons and battery. It also houses the circuit board responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you hit the button on your key fob. This board takes the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.

If the board is damaged or dead your key fob will not be able to operate. Sometimes, a dead key fob will just need to be reprogrammed which is something your local auto locksmith or the dealership can help you with.

Another reason your key fob might not be working is because the batteries are dead. This is a simple fix that you can do at home by replacing the battery. The positive side is that you can find an alternative battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.

Depending on the type of key fob, there is different ways to open it and get inside. You can find out what kind of battery your key fob has by conducting a quick online search. From there, you can purchase an alternative and then simply pop the old one out and put the new one in.

The main concern when you repair an old car key fob is that you don't want to cause damage to the circuit board or buttons any further. If you attempt to pull off the key fob with a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could crack the plastic or break the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can purchase an entire fob, including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for under $40.

So, if your key fob isn't working look into whether the batteries are depleted or if the circuit board is damaged. If this is not the case, you can have it repaired quickly and cheaply by a professional. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you buy on the internet.