Why Everyone Is Talking About Repair Car Key Right Now
How to Repair Car Key Fobs
Although we use them a lot keys aren't impervious to destruction. In fact, they can be destroyed in a variety of ways.
While the most common issue is a dead battery but other issues can be more grave. The majority of problems can be fixed with a simple fix at home.
Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most common reason for a key fob not working. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, particularly if they are exposed or humid temperatures or water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.
You will usually know when your car key fob's battery is depleted because the light on the LED will cease to blink. It's also possible that your key fob will no longer work from the same distance as it used to. In this case the key fob might need to be programmed again or replaced completely.
Fortunately replacing 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 side of the fob. Google can assist you in case you're unsure. Once you've found the kind of battery you want and the key fob, you can open it at the seam. Use a flathead screwdriver, or your fingernail to pry apart the two halves. Then, you can remove the old battery and put a new one in its place. Make sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing towards the buttons in the fob.
Some drivers aren't aware that their fob has died until they lock or unlock their car and the buttons no longer work. This can be fixed by reprogramming the fob. However, it can be time-consuming and expensive. You can also contact roadside assistance to find out whether they are able to restart 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 then it's time to call a professional. A certified technician can determine whether your car's computer requires reprogramming, or if the fob is only in need of an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your fob's keys. In the end it is not always the case that a new fob is the best solution.
Circuit Board Damage
A key fob can take a lot of physical abuse and is not indestructible. The battery, the circuit board buttons, and other components all suffer their fair amount of wear and tear with time It is therefore essential to be vigilant and take care of them to keep your car key fob functioning efficiently.
The easiest way to test is to ensure that the battery inside your key fob isn't depleted. Replace the battery to determine if it resolves the issue. If not, you might have to remove the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. This can be difficult because some key fobs don't have easy-release mechanisms to open them and you may end up damaging your key fob if try to pull 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. It can be caused by various factors, including dirt or moisture getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or even an unintentional firmware update may be the cause for this. If your key fob isn't functioning, you might think about having it replaced. This can be accomplished by a locksmith that specializes in this work.
Radio interference is another possible cause. This can happen if there are other wireless devices that transmit on the same frequency as your key fob, like radar detectors, home security systems. If this is the case you must contact the other device manufacturer to make sure that your key fob will not be affected by their signals.
There may be a need to replace a switch or an electrical component in your key fob. There are online guides that guide you through the process of fixing this yourself. It's important to be careful when you do this because the circuit boards inside the key fob are tiny and can break easily if they are handled roughly. If you do this yourself, make sure to use a high quality SMT switch and then solder it to the correct place.
Worn Out Buttons
Car key fobs are prone to quite a bit of wear and tear. They are susceptible to being dropped and spend a lot of time in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jostling can cause buttons to wear out or snagged. If this happens it's possible that a simple adjustment will be all that's needed to make it work again.
Modern key fobs are equipped with sensors that detect when they have been hit. This is due to the fact that they decrease the possibility of someone taking your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when pressed, they are worn out and should be replaced.
The circuit board inside the key fob also sends signals to your car. The signals include commands to unlock and lock and 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. Typically, this type of damage is caused by water, blunt force or a scratch on the circuit board.
You'll notice that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating If you're finding yourself pressing the buttons more than normal in order to get them working. In addition the fob might stop sending a signal to the car or it'll have less range than before.
Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are not able to use your key fob for your car. They can determine if your key fob is damaged or if your ignition cylinder is worn out.
Fortunately, the majority of car keyfob problems aren't complicated or serious. Keep an extra key fob in your vehicle at all times to avoid being thrown off by a malfunctioning key. This will ensure that you're never left stranded somewhere because of a lost or malfunctioning key. Of course, if you do happen to lose your spare car key, a locksmith will be able to change the key to work with the ignition in your car. They can also fix any internal damage to your key fob.
additional reading of your key fob does more than just protect the buttons and battery. 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.
Your key fob won't work if this board is damaged. Sometimes a dead key fob can be reprogrammed, which is something your local auto locksmith or dealership can assist you with.
Batteries could be the reason of your key fob not working. The battery can be replaced at home. You can find an alternative battery at the local auto parts store or online. These batteries are not only intended for key fobs.
Depending on the kind of key fob, there is a variety of ways to open it and access the insides. A quick search on the internet will reveal what kind of key fob yours is and what kind of battery it requires. You can then purchase a new one, take the old one out and put the new one into.
When fixing a damaged key fob, the most important concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons more. If you attempt to pull away the key fob with a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could break the plastic or break the case. Fortunately, a replacement for the case is inexpensive and you can get a whole fob assembly with the electronics from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.
If your key fob isn't working Check to see if the batteries are dead or if 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. Make sure you check for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you buy online.