How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Although we put them through numerous times keys are not indestructible. In fact, they can break down in a variety of ways.

Other issues can be more serious than a dead battery. Luckily, most of these can be fixed by making a quick DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is probably the most common reason the car key fob stop working. Fob batteries are prone to draining quickly, especially if they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity or water. It is a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet just in case.

The LED light will typically stop glowing when the battery in your car key fob is running low. The key fob could also stop working from the same distance it used to. In this instance it could be necessary to re-program your key fob or replace it completely.

Fortunately, replacing the car key fob battery is a simple task. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. If you are not sure then doing a quick Google search will be helpful. Once you've found the kind of battery you want you want to use, open the key fob near the seam. You will need to use an small screwdriver with a flat head or even your fingernail to pry the two halves apart. Then, take out the old battery and insert a new one in its place. Insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers aren't aware that their fob is dead until they lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons don't work anymore. In some instances this problem can be resolved by reprogramming your 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 car and get you back on the road.

If you've tried every solution and your car still doesn't start, it's the right time to call a professional. A trained technician can tell whether your car's computer requires reprogramming, or if the fob only requires an upgrade in battery. They can also suggest an auto shop to replace the key fob. In the end, though it is not always the case that a new fob is the best solution.

Damaged Circuit Board

A key fob can take a lot of physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, circuit board and buttons will all experience their fair amount of wear and tear over the course of time, so it's important to be aware and take care of them to keep your car key repairs key fob working well.

Verify that the battery still working on your key fob. Replace the battery to see if it fixes the issue. If not, you may require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It is sometimes difficult to open certain key fobs due to the fact that they don't have an easy release mechanism. You may cause damage to your fob by trying to take it apart. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, but you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.

Another issue ansmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, and commands to start your engine. If the circuit board within your vehicle is damaged, then your key fob might not unlock or start your engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt or a scratch on the circuit board.

You'll be able to tell that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating if you find yourself pressing more than usual to get them to function. Your fob could also stop sending signals to your car or have a smaller range.

Contact a locksmith right away when you're not able to use your key fob to start your vehicle. They can tell if the key fob is damaged, or if the cylinder in your ignition key repair car key remote near me (source web page) is worn out.

Fortunately, the majority of car keyfob problems aren't complicated or serious. Keep a spare key fob in your car always in case you end up being shocked by a malfunctioning one. This will ensure that you're not left stranded somewhere because of the loss or malfunction of your key. If you lose your spare key, an expert locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They can also repair any internal damage to the key fob.

Broken Case

The case of a key fob does more than just protect the buttons and batteries. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic every time you press the button on your key fob. The circuit board relays the signal from your key fob to your remote control car key repairs.

If the board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to operate. A key fob that is dead may only need to be reprogrammed by your local auto locksmith, or dealer.

Another reason why your key fob may not be working is that the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The good news is that you can find the replacement battery online or at your local auto parts shop since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.

Depending on the kind of key fob, there are different ways to open it up and get inside. A quick search online should reveal what kind of key fob repair fob you have and what kind of battery it takes. From there, you can buy the replacement and simply take the old one out and the new one in.

The main concern when you repair a broken car key fob is that you don't want to harm the circuit board or buttons further. Trying to pry apart the key fob using an edge that is sharp like screwdrivers can damage the case or even damage the plastic. Luckily, a replacement case isn't expensive and you can purchase an entire fob with the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.

If your key fob doesn't work, check to see if the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board has become damaged. If this isn't the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and easily by a professional. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Make sure you check the warranty on any replacement or used fobs purchased online.