How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we put them through numerous times, key fobs are not impervious to destruction. In fact, they could be destroyed in a variety of ways.
While the most common issue is an unresponsive battery however, other issues could be more grave. Fortunately, many of them can be resolved by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for a key fob not working. Fob batteries are prone to draining quickly, especially if they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, or water. It's a good idea keep an additional fob battery in your wallet just in case.
It is easy to tell that the battery of your car key fob is depleted because the LED light will cease to blink. The fob may be unable to function from the same distance it used to. In repair car key might require reprogramming or replaced completely.
Fortunately replacing the car key fob battery is easy. Find out the kind of battery used. The type of battery should be engraved on the side of the fob. Google can assist you if you're not sure. The key fob can be opened along the seam once you've identified the battery type. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or even your fingernail to split the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing towards the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers aren't aware that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons don't work anymore. In some instances, this can be solved by reprogramming the fob, however, this can be expensive and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and see if they can jump your car and get you back on the road.
If you've tried both solutions but your vehicle doesn't start, it's time to speak with a professional. A qualified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires reprogramming, or if the fob simply needs an upgrade in battery. They can also suggest an auto shop to replace your key fob. In the end, though sometimes, a brand new fob is the best solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
The key fob isn't indestructible, but it is able to endure a lot of physical harm. Battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is important to take care of these components to keep your key fob in good condition.
Make sure that the battery still working on your key fob. Replace the battery to see if it solves the issue. If not, you may need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It isn't easy to open some key fobs because they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You could cause damage to the fob by trying to force it apart. You can buy a tool to open your key fob. However, you should adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer to avoid damaging the.
A damaged or damaged key circuit board for the fob is another frequent issue. This can be due to various factors like moisture or dirt that gets into the battery compartment, software issues or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob has stopped working completely, you should think about having it reprogrammed by locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.
Radio interference is also a possibility. It could happen in the event that you have other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation, you should contact the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.
You may also need to replace a switch or other electrical component of your key fob. There are online guides that show you how to fix this yourself. Be cautious when doing this, however, because the circuit board in your key fob is small and can easily break if handled with care. If you decide to do this yourself, be certain to use a top quality SMT switch and solder it in place correctly.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot of wear and tear. They are prone to getting lost and spend a significant amount of time in your pocket or purse. This jostling can sometimes cause buttons to wear out or become stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Most modern key fobs come with sensors on them that tell if they've been pressed. They're made to do this so that they can reduce the likelihood of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when pressed, they are damaged and should be replaced.
The circuit board inside the key fob also sends signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, and commands to start the engine. If the circuit board within your vehicle is damaged, your key fob might not allow you to unlock or start your engine. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, force blunt or a scratch on the circuit board.
If you're having to press the buttons harder than usual in order to get them to function If this is the case, then your fob's buttons are getting worn out. In addition the fob might cease transmitting signals to the car, or have a lower range than it did before.
If you're unable to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, you need to contact a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob itself is damaged or your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of key fob issues in cars aren't too serious or complex. Keep an extra key fob in your car always in case you end up being surprised by a malfunctioning key. This will ensure that you're never trapped in a place because of the loss or malfunction of your key. If you lose your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that may have occurred on your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob does more than just shield the batteries and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that performs all the electrical magic whenever you press a key fob button. The circuit board relays the signal from your key fob to your car.
Your key fob will not work if the board is damaged. Sometimes, a dead key fob may need to be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.
Batteries could be the cause your key fob's battery not working. This is a quick fix that you can do at home by replacing the battery. The positive side is that you can get an alternative battery on the internet or at a local auto parts shop since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are many ways to open a key fob and get inside it, depending on the type. You can determine what kind of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick internet search. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out and the new one in.
If you are repairing a damaged key fob, the primary goal is not to harm the circuit or buttons more. If you try to pry away the key fob with an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it can crack the plastic or damage the case. Fortunately, a replacement case isn't expensive and you can buy a whole fob assembly with the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob won't work, check if you have damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If that's not the case, a professional will repair it quickly and cheaply. If not, it could be time to replace the fob. Make sure you check for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you purchase online.