Repair Car Key 101: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Key fobs can be damaged, even if we use them often. They are able to break down in various ways.

While the most common issue is an unresponsive battery, other issues can be more grave. The majority of these issues can be resolved by a quick fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is probably the most common reason why the car key fob stop functioning. Fob batteries can deplete quickly, especially when they are exposed or cold temperatures, humidity or water. It is a good idea to keep an extra battery in your wallet just in case.

The LED light will usually stop glowing when the battery in the car remote key repair key fob is low. It's also possible that your key fob will no longer work from the same distance as it used to. In this instance, the key fob may require reprogramming or replaced altogether.

Fortunately replacing the battery in a car key fob is easy. First, you need to determine the type of battery is used. The type of battery should be stamped on the side of your key fob. If you're unsure it is, an easy Google search will be helpful. Once you've identified the type of battery and the key fob, you can open it near the seam. Make use of a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail to break the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a brand new one. Then, insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not be aware their fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons do not respond. This can be corrected by reprogramming the fob. However it can be time-consuming and expensive. 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 have tried both of these solutions and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time to contact an expert. A qualified technician will be able to determine if your car's computer system needs to be reprogrammed or if the fob needs a replacement battery. They may also recommend an auto shop to replace your key fob. Sometimes it is possible that a new fob may be the best solution.

Damaged Circuit Board

Key fobs can withstand a lot of physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, circuit board and buttons are all subject to wear and tear. It is important to take care of these components to ensure your key fob remains in good condition.

Make sure that the battery still functioning in your key fob. Replace the battery to see if it fixes your issue. If not, you might require opening the key 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 may damage the fob by trying to force it apart. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, but you must always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging it.

A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be due to various factors, such as moisture or dirt that gets into the battery compartment software, hardware issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key repair shops near me fob is not working, you may be interested in having it reprogrammed. This can be done by a locksmith that specializes in this type of work.

Radio interference is also a possibility. This can occur if 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 contact the other device manufacturer to ensure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.

It's also possible that your key fob has an unreliable switch or electrical component that needs to be replaced. This is a difficult fix however, there are guides online that show you how to fix it yourself. Be cautious when doing this, however, because the circuit board that is inside your key fob is very small and is prone to breaking if handled with care. If you do this yourself, be sure to use a high quality SMT switch and then solder it in place correctly.

Worn Out Buttons

Car key fobs are subject to a lot of wear and tear. They're prone to being dropped, and they often are frequently jostled around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause the buttons to become worn out or snagged. A simple adjustment can fix the problem.

Modern key fobs are fitted with sensors that detect when they have been hit. This is due to the fact that they decrease the possibility of someone taking your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when pressed, they are worn out and should be replaced.

The circuit board inside the key fob also transmits signals to your car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands and also instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged, your key fob might not allow you to unlock your car or even start the engine. This kind of damage is usually caused by water or blunt force.

If you're having to press the buttons more than usual to get them to function, then your key fob's buttons are getting worn out. The fob may also stop sending an alert to your car or have a lower range.

Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are not able to use the key fob to start your car key fob repair. They'll be able to determine whether the key fob is damaged or your ignition cylinder has worn out.

Fortunately, the majority of car key fob problems aren't serious or complicated. Keep a spare key fob in your car at all times to avoid being shocked by a malfunctioning device. You won't be left stranded due to an issue with your key or a lost one. If you lose your spare key a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your vehicle'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 battery and buttons. It also houses the circuit board responsible for all the electrical magic when you hit a button on your key fob. This board takes the signal from your key fob, and then transmits it to your car.

If the board is damaged or dead your key fob will not be able to function. A key fob that is dead may require reprogramming by a local auto locksmith, or dealership.

Batteries may be the cause the key fob's not working. The battery can be replaced at your home. The good thing is that you can locate a replacement battery online or at your local auto parts shop since the batteries aren't limited to key fobs.

Depending on the type of key fob you have, there are a variety of ways to open it up and get inside. A quick internet search should show you which type of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it uses. You can then buy an alternative and take the old one out and then put the new one into.

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

If your key fob does not work, check if you have damaged the circuit board or the batteries. If this isn't the case, you can have it repaired quickly and cheaply by a professional. If not, it might be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs that you purchase on the internet.