Why Repair Car Key Isn't As Easy As You Think
How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we use them many a times keys are not impervious to destruction. In fact, they could break down in a variety of ways.
While the most common issue is a dead battery however, other issues could be much more serious. The majority of these issues can be resolved with a quick fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most common cause of a key fob not working. Fob batteries are prone to draining quickly, especially when they're exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity or water. It's a good idea to keep an additional fob battery in your wallet just in case.
You will usually know that the battery in your car key fob is running low because the light on the LED will cease to glow. The fob may also stop working from the same distance it was previously working to. In this instance the key fob could require reprogramming or replaced altogether.
Fortunately, replacing a car key fob battery is simple. First, determine what type of battery is used. The type should be engraved on the side of the fob. If you're unsure then doing a quick Google search will help. Once you've identified the type of battery you want to use, open the key fob near the seam. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or even your fingernail to pry apart the two halves. Remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one. Place the new battery in such a way that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.
Some drivers don't realize that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their car, and the buttons no longer work. In some instances this issue can be resolved by reprogramming the fob but that can be costly and time-consuming. You can also contact roadside assistance to see whether they are able to jumpstart your car and get it back on the road.
If you have tried all three of these methods but your car won't start and you're not sure why, it's time for a professional. A certified technician can determine if your car's computer system needs to be reprogrammed or if the fob needs a new battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your fob's keys. Sometimes it is possible that a new fob could be the best solution.
Damaged Circuit Board
A key fob can take a lot of physical abuse and is not impervious to destruction. The battery, the circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair share of wear and tear over the course of time and it's crucial to be on guard and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob working efficiently.
Check that the battery is still functioning on your key fob. If it is, replace the battery and determine if this fixes the problem. If this doesn't work, you might need to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. It can be difficult to open certain key fobs since they do not have an easy-release mechanism. You can cause damage to your fob by trying to force it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob. However, you must always follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging the.
A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be caused by various factors, including dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Issues with software or an unintentional firmware update may be the cause of this. If your key fob isn't functioning, you might be interested in having it changed. This can be done by a locksmith who specializes in this kind of work.
Radio interference is another possibility. car keys repair could happen if you have other wireless devices around that transmit at the same frequency, for example, 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 affected by their signals.
It is also possible to replace a switch or other electrical component in your key fob. This is a difficult fix, but you can find guides online that show you how to fix it yourself. It is important to be cautious when doing this it is important to be careful, since the circuit boards inside the key fob are tiny and are susceptible to breaking in the event of rough handling. If you're doing it yourself, make sure to use an SMT switch that is of high-quality and put the switch in the correct position.
Buttons that are worn out
Car key fobs are susceptible to a lot of wear and tear. They are prone to being dropped and often are frequently being tossed around in your purse or pocket. This jostling can sometimes cause the buttons to wear down or become stuck. Simple adjustments can resolve the problem.
Most modern key fobs come with sensors that tell if they've been pressed. They're designed to do this to lower the risk of thieves stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when pushed this is a sign that they're worn out and need to be replaced.
Key fobs also have an internal circuit board that sends signals to the car. Those signals include commands to unlock and lock and also instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside is damaged, your key fob might not unlock or start your engine. Generally, this kind of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.
If you have to press the buttons harder than usual in order to get them to function If this is the case, then your fob's buttons are wearing out. In addition the fob might stop sending a signal to the car, or have a lower range than it did before.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are not able to use your key fob to start your car. They can determine if your key fob is damaged, or if the cylinder of your ignition is worn out.
Fortunately, most car key fob issues aren't too serious or complex. Keep an extra key fob in your vehicle always in case you end up being shocked by a malfunctioning device. This will ensure that you're not trapped in a place due to the loss or malfunction of your key. Of course, if you do happen to lose your spare car key A locksmith can reset it to ensure it is compatible with the ignition of your car. They'll also be able to fix any internal damage that has occurred to your key fob.
Broken Case
The case of your key fob does more than just protect the buttons and battery. The case also houses the circuitry that executes all the electrical magic every time you press a key fob button. The circuit board relays the signal from your key fob to your car.
Your key fob won't work if the board is damaged. Sometimes a dead key fob will just need to be reprogrammed which is something that your local auto locksmith or dealership can help you with.
Another reason your key fob may not be working is that the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at your home. The good thing is that you can locate the replacement battery online or at your local auto parts store, since these batteries aren't exclusive to key fobs.
Depending on the type of key fob, there is different ways to open it up and access the insides. You can find out what type of battery your key fob uses by conducting a quick online search. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out and put the new one in.
When repairing a broken key fob, the most important concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons in any way. Trying to pry apart a key fob with a hard edge like a screwdriver could cause damage to the case or crack the plastic. A replacement case is inexpensive and you can purchase the entire fob including the electronics on eBay or Amazon for under $40.
So, if your key fob isn't functioning look into whether the batteries are dead or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this is not the case, you can have it repaired quickly and cheaply by a professional. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you buy on the internet.