10 Repair Car Key That Are Unexpected
How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Key fobs can become damaged even if we use them a lot. In fact, they could break down in many different ways.
The most frequent issue is a dead battery but other issues can be more serious. Luckily, most of these can be fixed by making a quick DIY fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is probably the most frequent reason the car key fob stop functioning. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, particularly if they are exposed to extreme heat or cold temperatures, humidity, or water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
You can usually tell when the battery of your car key fob is depleted because the LED light will cease to glow. The fob might be unable to function from the same distance it was previously working to. In this case, the key fob may require reprogramming or replaced entirely.
Fortunately, replacing the car key fob battery is easy. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of the fob. Google can assist you if you're not sure. The key fob can be opened across the seam after you have identified the type of battery. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or even your fingernail pry the two halves apart. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers might not be aware that their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons do not respond. In some cases this problem can be resolved by reprogramming the fob however, this can be expensive and time-consuming. You can also call roadside assistance to see whether they are able to jumpstart your car and get it back on the road.
If you've tried every solution but your vehicle doesn't turn on, it's time to call an expert. A certified technician will be able to determine if your vehicle's computer system requires reprogramming or the fob simply requires a replacement battery. They can also recommend an auto shop that will replace the key fob. Sometimes, however, a new fob may be the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob can take some physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, the circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair share of wear and tear over time and it's crucial to be aware and take care of them to keep your car key fob working efficiently.
Verify that the battery still working in your key fob. If it is replaced, see if that fixes your problem. If not, you may need to open the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be tricky since some key fobs do not have a release mechanism that is easy to unlock them and you could damage your fob if you try to force it apart. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, but you should always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
Another issue that is common is a damaged or corrupted circuit board in the key fob. This can be caused by many things like dirt or moisture 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 with locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. It could happen if you have other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency, such as radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, you should consult with other manufacturers of the device to make sure that your key fob isn't being affected by their signals.
It's also possible that your key fob may have a bad switch or other electrical component that needs to be replaced. This is a difficult fix however, you can find guides online that show you how to fix it yourself. Be cautious when you do this because the circuit boards in your key fob are small and easily break when handled rough. If car key fob repair near me doing this yourself, be sure to use an SMT switch of good quality and then solder the switch into the correct position.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are more prone to being lost and spend a significant amount of time in your pocket or purse. The constant jostling can cause the buttons to wear down or get stuck. When this happens an easy adjustment could be all that's needed to get it working again.
Modern key fobs come with sensors that can detect when they've been hit. They're designed to detect this because they can help reduce the likelihood of theft by someone else of your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when you press them, they're worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also contain an internal circuit board which transmits signals to your car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands, as well as commands to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged then the key fob you have may not allow you to unlock your car or even start the engine. Most of the time, this kind of damage is caused by water, force blunt or something that scratches the circuit board.
If you have to press the buttons harder than normal to activate them If this is the case, then your key fob buttons are becoming worn out. Your fob could be unable to send an alert to your vehicle or have a shorter range.
If you're unable unlock your key fob, unlock or start your vehicle, it's crucial to call an emergency locksmith in your area. They can tell if the key fob is damaged or the cylinder in your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of car key fob issues aren't a major or difficult issue. The best way to avoid being caught off guard by an issue with your key fob is to keep an extra key in your possession at all times. You'll never be stranded due to a malfunctioning or lost key. If you do happen to lose your spare car key, a locksmith can help change the key to work with your car's ignition. They can also fix any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
A key fob's case does more than just protect the battery and buttons. It also houses the circuit board responsible for performing all the electrical magic when you press a button on your key fob. The board transmits the signal from your key fob to your car.
If this board is damaged or dead your key fob will not be able to operate. Sometimes, a dead key fob may need to be reset which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can assist you with.
Batteries could 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 the replacement battery on the internet or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
There are a variety of ways to open a key fob and get inside it, based on the type. You can find out what type of battery your key fob has 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.
The main concern when you repair a broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons further. When you try to break the key fob using a hard edge like a screwdriver can break the case or crack the plastic. A replacement case isn't much and you can buy the entire fob including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
If your key fob isn't working look into whether the batteries are depleted or if the circuit board has become damaged. If that's not the case, a professional can repair it for you quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it could be the time to purchase a replacement. Make sure to verify the warranty of any replacement or used fobs that you purchase on the internet.