5 Repair Car Key Projects For Every Budget
How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Even though we use them many a times, key fobs are not indestructible. In fact, they can be destroyed in a variety of ways.
Other issues could be more grave than an unresponsive battery. The majority of these issues can be solved with a quick fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is probably the most common reason the car key fob stops working. Fob batteries can be drained quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. It is a good idea to keep an additional fob battery in your wallet just in case.
The LED light will typically stop glowing when the battery in the car key fob is running low. The key fob could 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 completely.
Fortunately replacing key repair service is simple. First, find out what kind of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of the fob. If you're not sure then an easy Google search will help. Once you've identified the battery type and the key fob, you can open it at the seam. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail, to separate the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a brand new one. Insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers may not realize their fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their car and the buttons do not respond. This can be fixed by reprogramming the fob. However it can be costly and time-consuming. 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've tried both of these solutions and your car is still unable to start then it's time to contact an expert. A certified technician can determine the computer in your car needs changing its programming, or if the fob simply needs a new battery. They can also suggest an auto shop to replace your key fob. In the end, though, sometimes a brand new fob is the most effective solution.
Circuit Board Damage
Key fobs aren't indestructible, but it is able to endure a lot of physical harm. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all susceptible to wear and wear and tear. It is crucial to take care of these components to ensure your key fob remains in good working order.
Verify that the battery still functioning on your key fob. If it is, replace the battery and determine if this fixes the problem. If not, you may have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It can be difficult to open some key fobs because they don't have an easy release mechanism. You could cause damage to your fob by trying to break it. You can buy a special tool to open your key fob, but it is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.
A damaged or corrupted key fob circuit board is a common problem. This could be due to many things, including dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Issues with software or an accident firmware update could be the cause of this. If your key fob has stopped working completely, think about having it reprogrammed by locksmiths who specialize in this type of work.
Radio interference is another possible cause. This could happen if there are other wireless devices operating on the same frequency as your key fob, for instance radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the case, consult with other manufacturers of your device to ensure that your key fob's signal isn't affected by their signals.
It is also possible to replace a switch or other electrical component in your key fob. This is a more difficult fix however, you can find guides online that explain how to do it yourself. Be cautious when you do this because the circuit boards inside the key fob are tiny and are susceptible to breaking when handled rough. If you're doing 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 prone to a lot wear and wear and tear. They are prone to getting lost and spend a significant amount of time being tossed around in your pocket or purse. Sometimes, this jolting can cause the buttons to wear out or snagged. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Most modern key fobs come with sensors on them that detect when they've been used. This is because they lower the chances of someone stealing your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when you press them, they're worn out and should be replaced.
The circuit board that is in the key fob transmits signals to your car. Those signals include unlock and lock commands and also commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged then your key fob might not unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.
If you're forced to press the buttons harder than normal to activate them the fob's buttons are wearing out. Additionally the fob might stop transmitting a signal to the car, or have less range than it did prior to.
Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are not able to use your key fob to access your vehicle. They can determine if the key fob is damaged or if the cylinder in your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, most key fobs for cars issues aren't very complicated or even serious. Keep a spare key fob in your vehicle at all times to avoid being thrown off by a malfunctioning device. This will ensure that you're never left stranded somewhere due to a lost or malfunctioning key. Of course, if you do lose your car key spare A locksmith can reset it to ensure it is compatible with the ignition in your car. They can also repair any internal damage to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of a key fob does more than just protect the buttons and batteries. It also houses the circuit board responsible for all the electrical magic when you press a button on your key fob. This board transmits the signal from your keyfob to your car.
The key fob won't work if this board is damaged. A key fob that is dead may only need to be reprogrammed by a local auto locksmith or dealership.
Another reason your key fob might not be working is that the batteries are dead. This is a quick fix that you can do at home by replacing the battery. The good thing is that you can locate a replacement battery on the internet or at a local auto parts store since the batteries aren't limited to key fobs.
There are many ways to open up a key fob to get inside, based on the kind. A quick internet search should show you which type of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it uses. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out and put the new one in.
The most important thing to consider when fixing the broken car key fob is that you don't want to damage the circuit board or buttons any further. If you attempt to pry apart the key fob using an instrument like a screwdriver or any other sharp edge, it could break the plastic or damage the case. A replacement case is inexpensive and you can purchase a complete fob assembly including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
If your key fob doesn't work Check to see if the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board has been damaged. If this is not the case, you can have it repaired quickly and cheaply by a professional. Otherwise, it might be the time to purchase an upgrade. Make sure to verify the warranty on any fob replacement or used that you purchase online.