10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Repair Car Key
How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we use them many a times, key fobs are not impervious to destruction. In fact, they could break down in many different ways.
While the most common problem is a dead battery however, other issues could be more serious. The majority of problems can be fixed with a simple fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is likely the most common reason why a car key fob stops working. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity or water. It's a good idea keep an extra fob battery in your wallet just in case.
The LED light will typically stop blinking when the battery in the car key fob is running low. The fob may also stop working at the same distance it was previously working to. In this scenario the key fob could need to be reprogrammed or replaced entirely.
Fortunately the replacement of the car key fob battery is easy. First, determine what kind of battery is being used. The type should be embossed on the back of the fob. If you're not sure, an easy Google search will help. Once you have found the kind of battery you want, open the key fob at the junction. Use a flathead screwdriver, or even your fingernail to separate the two halves. Then, remove the old battery and put the new one in its place. Then, insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers aren't aware that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their car and the buttons stop working. In some cases this issue can be resolved by reprogramming the fob however, it can be costly and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to find out whether they are able to start your car and get it back on the road.
If you have tried all three of these methods and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time for a professional. A certified technician will be able to determine whether your car's computer system needs reprogramming or the fob simply requires a replacement battery. They can also recommend an auto repair shop that can 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
Key fobs aren't indestructible, but it can endure a lot of physical harm. The battery, circuit board and buttons will all experience their fair share of wear and tear over the course of time, so it's important to be on guard and take care of them in order to keep your car key fob working efficiently.
The most straightforward thing to do is to ensure that the battery inside your key fob isn't dead. If it is, replace the battery and check if it fixes your issue. If not, you might require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be tricky because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms that allow you to open them and you may harm your device if you attempt to break it. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, however it is recommended to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or damaged key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be due to many things like dirt or moisture that gets into the battery compartment software, hardware issues or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob isn't functioning, you might be interested in having it changed. This can be accomplished by a locksmith who specializes in this work.
Radio interference is another possible cause. It could happen if are other wireless devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob, such radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation you need to contact the manufacturer of the other device to make sure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob is equipped with an issue with the switch or another electrical component that must be replaced. There are online guides that will show you how to fix this yourself. Be careful when doing this, however, because the circuit board inside your key fob is small and is prone to breaking when handled rough. If you're doing this yourself, ensure you use an SMT switch of good quality and then solder the switch into place correctly.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are prone to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They're susceptible to being dropped and spend a lot of time moving around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause the buttons to become worn out or stuck. If this happens, a simple adjustment may be all that's needed to get it working again.
Most modern key fobs have sensors that detect when they've been used. This is because they lower the chance of someone else stealing your vehicle. If your key fob's buttons aren't responding when you press them this is a sign that they're worn out and require to be replaced.
The circuit board inside the key fob transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well as instructions to start the engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged, then the key fob you have may not unlock your vehicle 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 harder than usual in order to get them to function, then your key fob buttons are becoming worn out. Your fob might be unable to send a signal to your car or have a smaller range.
If you're unable to get your key fob to unlock or start your car, you need to call a locksmith near you immediately. They'll be able determine whether the key fob is damaged or your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of car keyfob problems aren't complicated or serious. Keep a spare key fob in your car at all times to avoid being thrown off by a malfunctioning key. This will ensure that you're not stuck in a bind due to the loss or malfunction of your key. If you lose your spare key a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your vehicle's engine. They'll also be able to repair any internal damage that's occurred on the key fob.
Broken Case
The case of the key fob is more than just shield the buttons and batteries. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for doing all of the electrical magic when you press a button on your key fob. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob and transmits it to your car.
Your key fob won't function if the board is damaged. A dead key fob might require reprogramming by a local auto locksmith or dealership.
Another reason why your key fob may not be working is because the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at home. The good thing is that you can get an alternative battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries are not exclusive to key fobs.
There are key repair near me to open a key fob to get inside, based on the kind. You can find out what type of battery your key fob is using by conducting a quick internet search. From there, you can buy the replacement and simply take the old one out, and then the new one in.
When repairing a broken key fob, the main goal is not to harm the circuit or buttons further. If you attempt to remove the fob using an edge that is sharp like a screwdriver could damage the case or even damage the plastic. A replacement case isn't expensive and you can find the entire fob including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
So, if your key fob isn't working, check to see if the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board has become damaged. If this isn't the case, a professional can repair it for you quickly and inexpensively. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Be sure to check the warranty of any replacement or used fobs that you purchase on the internet.