How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Although we use them a lot, key fobs are not indestructible. They can actually break down in various ways.

Other issues could be more grave than a dead battery. The majority of these issues can be resolved with 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 tend to drain quickly, especially when they are exposed to extreme heat or cold temperatures, humidity, or water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you need it.

You will usually know that the battery in your car key fob is running low because the LED light will stop glowing. The key fob could also stop working at the same distance that it used to. In this scenario it could be necessary to reprogram the key fob or replace it completely.

Fortunately the replacement of a car key fob battery is easy. Find out the type of battery that is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of the fob. If you are not sure, doing a quick Google search can help. Once you have found 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. Take the old battery out, 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 may not realize the fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons don't respond. In some cases this problem can be resolved by reprogramming your fob, but that can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to call roadside assistance and ask them to jump your vehicle and get you back on the road.

If you've tried every solution and your car still doesn't start, it's the right time to contact an expert. A qualified technician can determine the computer in your car needs reconfiguring, or if your key fob only requires replacement batteries. They can also suggest an auto shop that will replace the key fob. In the end sometimes, a brand new fob is the best solution.

Damaged Circuit Board

The key fob isn't impervious to destruction, but it can withstand a lot of physical damage. The circuit board, battery and buttons are all subject to wear and tear. It is essential 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 may have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It is sometimes difficult to open certain key fobs since they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You may harm the fob by trying to force it apart. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, however it is recommended to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.

A damaged or defective key fob circuit board is another common problem. This can be due to many things, such as dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment software problems or even an unintentional firmware update. If your key fob is not functioning, you might want to consider having it changed. This can be done by a locksmith that specializes in this work.

Radio interference is another possibility. This can occur when you have other wireless devices that transmit at the same frequency, like radar detectors or home security systems. If this is the situation you must get in touch with 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 has a bad switch or other electrical component that needs to be replaced. You can find online guides that will help you fix this yourself. It's important to be careful when you do this, as the circuit boards that are inside your key fob are tiny and repair Car key can break easily when handled rough. If you do this yourself, make sure to use a good quality SMT switch and then solder it into place properly.

Buttons that are worn out

Car key fobs are prone to a lot of wear and tear. They are more prone to being dropped and spend a lot of time in your pocket or purse. The jolting can cause buttons to wear out or become stuck. A simple adjustment can solve the issue.

Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that can detect when they have been pressed. This is due to the fact that they decrease the chances of someone stealing your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when pressed, they are worn out and need to be replaced.

Key fobs also contain a circuit board inside them that sends signals to the car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well instructions to start the engine. If the internal circuit board is damaged, your key fob might not be able to unlock or start your engine. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, blunt force or something that scratches the circuit board.

If you have to press the buttons harder than usual in order to activate them, then your fob's buttons are wearing out. In addition your fob could stop sending a signal to the car or it'll have less range than it did prior to.

Contact a locksmith right away when you're unable to use your key fob to start your car. They can tell if the key fob is damaged, or if the cylinder in your ignition is worn out.

Fortunately, most car key repair cost keyfob issues aren't very complicated or even serious. Keep a spare key fob in your car always in case you end up being surprised by a malfunctioning key. You won't be left stranded due to an unresponsive or lost key. Of course, if you do happen to lose your spare car key, a locksmith will be able to rekey it so that it works with the ignition in your car. They'll also be able repair any internal damage that's occurred on your key fob.

Broken Case

The case for your key fob is more than just a place to store the buttons and battery. The case also houses the circuitry that executes all the electrical magic when you press the key fob button. This board takes the signal from your key fob and transmits it to your car.

Your key fob won't work if this board is damaged. A dead key fob might only need to be reprogrammed by a local auto locksmith, or dealer.

Batteries may be the cause the key fob's not working. This is a simple fix that you can do at home by replacing the battery. You can purchase the replacement battery from your local auto parts shop or online. These batteries aren't just for key fobs.

Depending on the type of key fob, there are different ways to open it and access the insides. A quick search online should reveal what kind of key fob you have and the type of battery it uses. You can then purchase an alternative and take the old one out, and then put the new one in.

The biggest concern when repairing a broken car key fob is that you don't want to cause damage to the circuit board or buttons any further. If you attempt to pull apart the key fob using the screwdriver or another sharp edge, it can crack the plastic or damage the case. A replacement case isn't much and you can buy the entire fob including the electronic components on eBay or Amazon for under $40.

If your key fob won't work, check if you've damaged the circuit board or batteries. If this isn't the situation, you can get it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. In the event that it isn't, it's time to invest in an upgrade. Make sure you check the warranty of any replacement or used fobs that you purchase online.