5 Key Fob Repair Lessons Learned From Professionals

· 6 min read
5 Key Fob Repair Lessons Learned From Professionals

Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob could appear to be an extravagance, if it ceases functioning properly, you could be in a bind. While replacing it with a brand new key fob can be expensive and time-consuming, it's sometimes the most cost-effective alternative.

But before you go to the dealer to have one reprogramed There are other locations that will save you money.

Dead Battery

A dead fob battery is one of the most common problems with key fobs. It can be a shock, especially if it happens when you're leaving for work or attending a social event. You may have a back-up plan, like an additional key or a number for roadside help but you'll still have to repair or replace the fob. It's a good idea to know that most car keyfob battery issues can be fixed easily with the right information.

Many modern vehicles come with a backup system to cover the possibility that the fob's battery could go bad. If you attach a dead fob in the ignition, you can usually start the car. If you have a push-to-start vehicle, this will also unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will give you specific instructions on how to use the key fob.

Other reasons for keys that don't turn on or respond to button press events include the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery with low capacity or a remote controller that requires reprogramming. In some instances cleaning the device may be all it takes to make your key fob work again. As key fob buttons get repeatedly pressed, dirt may build up and block them from being pressed all the way.

You can make use of the end of a clip to swiftly clean your key fob. This is a safe method to open up the case and remove the old battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any tools you'll require to remove the key fob's case at hand. You can prepare for any problems with your keyfob ahead of time, so you do not have to be worried about it ruining your day or calling roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep a spare key in your purse so that you aren't shocked by a key fob issue.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob send signals to the remote's circuit board when they're press. If the buttons wear out, signals may not be sent. Your fob may cease to function. This can occur over time or could be due to another issue with the car or fob. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's worn out.

Key fobs are often subjected to a lot of abuse. Every day, they're broken, dropped and exposed to cold and hot. They're also very fragile and can easily be damaged. The inside of the fob has components like a circuit board and battery contacts that can be destroyed with enough abuse.

The battery in your key fob is usually enough to solve most issues, but certain issues are more complex than those. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver in order to open the case of the fob and determine if it needs to be replaced or cleaned. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries, which can be purchased in nearly any store.

Even a small amount can harm the fob. This could be a concern if you go swimming with the key fob in your purse or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This can cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob to cease working.

If you're dealing with a problem with a button the best solution is to contact an expert locksmith. They can usually fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also address other electrical problems, like an unresponsive light or a sound horn that isn't working.

It's important to stay up-to-date with the most recent technology and equipment for your car. Cars can be expensive. When you don't, your vehicle will not function properly and it will be more difficult to get there you need to be. A malfunctioning technology or equipment can also pose a risk to safety, as it can result in serious mechanical problems in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If your fob doesn't work when you try to start your car, it could be that the battery terminals have broken. To unlock and start the car, the fob must be able to communicate with central system of your vehicle. The communication happens through a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent through the fob to the internal key (if it is present) which opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to be able to send this signal up to 50 feet, but the transmission may not work if the battery terminals are damaged.

Fortunately, these are simple solutions. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply take out the old one, identify the type of battery you require, and then visit an auto parts shop or online retailer to purchase the right ones. Some key fobs are difficult to open in order to access the batteries however, and it pays to be cautious so that you don't break anything inside.

The next step is to test the key fob once more. If the key fob still doesn't work the key made of metal inside the fob might be damaged or the key may be modified. Modern keys need to be programmed to work with a specific vehicle, and certain error codes may cause a problem with the programming on the key fob. A professional can reprogram the key to the vehicle.

Another possibility is that the fob is damaged, especially when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board may be damaged because the key fob was exposed to heat excessively or other issues. This could happen if you are working on your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could cause other issues, such as a damaged key fob or a broken horn. Examine your key fob and replace or repair it if needed. In the absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs can be a great convenience, but they may also cause problems that require professional repair. Fortunately, the majority of issues that can plague a car key fob are relatively simple and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of most frequent problems, and solutions.

A dead battery

The most basic remotes can last for a long time before requiring a new battery, but the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries must be replaced every three or four years and may cease functioning if they get too old. Fortunately this is a simple solution - just buy a new replacement battery and then install it.

A damaged receiver

To open and start your car, the transmitter in your keyfob must receive a signal from the receiver in your car. If this receiver is damaged, the signals will be unable to pass through and will remain unreadable. This is a simple problem to determine, however if the receiver appears damaged, it could be necessary for you to replace it.

Not programmed



Certain modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car using a unique code that only the manufacturer can understand. In the majority of cases, a replacement fob must be programmed by the dealer. But, you can find fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with most vehicles.

Not working

If your car key fob does not work after you have replaced the battery and buttons, it could be due to an electrical problem or a different issue that requires professional assistance to fix. A professional locksmith will be able to look for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back to good working order in a short time. This service is usually less expensive than a trip to the dealership.  broken key repair near me  of a replacement fob will differ based on the model of your vehicle and your local locksmith. You can get an estimate of the cost by contacting a few local companies before scheduling a job.