Why Key Fob Repair Is More Tougher Than You Think

· 6 min read
Why Key Fob Repair Is More Tougher Than You Think

Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob could seem a bit of an incidental item, if it stops working properly you could be in a difficult spot. It's expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.

You can save money by going to other locations prior to going to the dealer.

Dead Battery

A dead battery on a key fob is one of the most frequent issues with key fobs. It can make people feel a bit uneasy and is most likely to happen as you are leaving for work or heading to a social gathering. There may be a backup plan, like an extra key or a number for help at the roadside, but you will still need to fix or replace the fob. It's important to know that most battery issues for car keys can be easily fixed with the right information.

Many modern cars come with a backup system that accounts for the possibility of fob batteries going out of service. Usually when you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button, you will be able to start the car. If you have a push-to start vehicle, this will also unlock the doors. The owner's manual of your car will contain specific information on where to put the fob of the key to start it.

Other causes for keys that don't be able to turn on or respond to button presses could be the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery with low capacity, or a remote control that needs to be reprogrammed. In some instances cleaning your key fob might be enough to make it work again. As key fob buttons get repeatedly pressed, dirt could build up and stop them from being fully pressed.

You can use the end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. This can be used to safely open the case and remove your old battery. Keep an additional battery and any tools you'll require to open the key fob's case at hand. You can plan for any problems with your keyfob in advance, so you do not have to worry about it ruining your day or having to call roadside assistance. Alternatively, you can keep an extra key in your purse so you don't get surprised by a problem with your key fob.

Button Issues

When pressed on a remote control send signals to the circuit board. If these buttons wear out, the signals might not be sent and the fob won't be working. This can occur over time, or it could be a result of an issue with the car or fob. If the button is worn out or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.

Key fobs often get lots of abuse. Everyday, they're broken, dropped, and exposed both to cold and heat. They're also pretty delicate and are easily broken. The inside of the fob contains parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that can be destroyed if abused enough.

Change the battery inside your key fob is typically enough to solve most issues, but some issues are more complicated than those. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob using an screwdriver and determining whether it's dirty or requires replacement. Most key fobs use 3V button cells that are readily available in any store.

Even a tiny amount of water can harm the fob. This could be a problem when you wash the key fob or go swimming with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob to stop functioning.

Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if you're having a problem with buttons. They will usually be able to fix or replace the button and reprogramme it for you. They can also fix other electrical problems, like the horn that is broken or lights that aren't turning on.

Cars are expensive, therefore it's essential to stay up to date with the latest technology and equipment that help them run. When you don't, your vehicle won't function as it should and it will be difficult to get to where you're required to be.  repair car key near me  and equipment can also be a safety issue in that it could cause serious mechanical issues in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals


If you've been trying to start your car and the fob isn't functioning, this may be a sign that your battery terminals are broken. The fob must be capable of communicating with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock it and start it. The communication happens via a small radio transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted by the fob to an internal key (if it exists) that opens the doors and then turns on the engine. The fob is designed to send this signal at distances of up to 50 feet, but the transmission might not function in the event that the battery terminals are broken.

These are easy fixes. It's usually simple to replace the battery. Simply take out the old one, determine what type of batteries you require, and go to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the right batteries. It may be a challenge to open key fobs to access the batteries. Be cautious not to damage any item.

Then, test the key fob again. If it doesn't work, it is possible that the key's metal part inside the fob has been damaged or that the key has been programmed. Modern keys must be programmed to work with specific vehicles, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogram the key to the vehicle.

Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly when it was dropped or left in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was subjected to excessive heat or had other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. This could happen if you have work done to your vehicle and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other issues, such as a damaged key fob or a damaged horn. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if needed. Not having a working key can be stressful and dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have but they also cause problems that need professional repair.  repair car key near me  of the issues that may affect a car keyfob are simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are some of the most frequent problems and their potential solutions.

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. The batteries for fobs must be changed every three to four years and can stop working if they are too old. Luckily, this is an easy issue to fix - just purchase a new replacement battery and install it.

A damaged receiver

The transmitter inside your key fob must receive an input from the vehicle's receiver to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not pass through and remain unreadable. This is a straightforward issue to determine, but it may be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is damaged to the point of being unusable.

Not programmed

Certain cars of the present require an extra chip inside the key fob to allow for start. This chip communicates to the car using a unique code that is only recognized by the manufacturer. In the majority of instances, a replacement key fob has to be programmed by the dealer. However, you may find aftermarket fobs online that are compatible with most vehicles.

Not working

If you've tried to replace the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still doesn't work, it could be an electrical issue or some other kind of problem that requires professional fix. A professional locksmith can quickly solve the issue by looking for the issue. This service is usually cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob can vary based on the model of your car and your local locksmith. You can contact a few companies in your area to know the cost before booking an appointment.