Meet You The Steve Jobs Of The Remote Key Fob Repair Industry
Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home
If your remote key fob stops working, you may be tempted to go to an establishment to get it changed. Instead, try a few quick fixes at home.
Start by replacing the battery. Flat-watch-style batteries are affordable and readily available at hardware stores. Check the key fob for worn buttons or those that aren't in place.
Dead Battery
The key fob, a tiny electronic device, makes it easy to lock and unlock your vehicle. It works by using a radio transmitter that transmits codes to a receiver within your vehicle. Key fob batteries generally last for a long period of time, but they could end up dying at any time. Examine the LED light, or press one of the buttons to determine whether the battery is dead. If the key fob will not respond to press, then the battery is dead and has to replaced.
Change the battery on the key fob is simple and quick. It is usually as simple as opening the key fob, then removing the old battery, and replacing it with a new one. Batteries for fobs are small, similar to those found in hearing aids or watches. They can be found in home improvement stores as well as general stores. They're typically shaped like small coins with a plus and minus symbol on the bottom. If you're unsure of the kind of battery your key fob is using, check your owner's manual or check the fob's own for a label.
After you change the battery, your key fob should perform as expected. If it does not, there may be another problem with your car or the system that is causing the fob not to function properly. If this is the case, you will need roadside assistance.
Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you might be able to buy replacement fobs for your keys on the internet or from a dealer. It is often cheaper and easier to buy a new key fob instead of to fix a damaged one.
Buttons are not responding
If you've been driving for a while, and you notice that the keys' buttons aren't functioning it could be due to an issue with worn out sensor for the button. Rubberized buttons on most fobs can wear out with time. This can cause them to only function correctly if they are pushed in a specific way or with extreme pressure. This is a common issue for many fobs and is easily fixed with some simple DIY steps.
To unlock the vehicle the fob sends an indication to the receiver in the car. If the receiver is damaged, it might not receive the signal and the key will not operate to unlock or start your vehicle. The best option is to have your local mechanic inspect the receiver for damage. In most cases, this will be free or for a small cost depending on the make of your vehicle.
Key fobs that are used daily get lots of use and are often found in pockets and purses which is why it's no surprise that they can occasionally be finicky and only function properly if they are pressed a certain way. It is simple to fix most fobs because the buttons are strengthened with silicone and a little bit of effort.
Press and hold the lock/unlock buttons on your keyfob until you hear the vehicle chime. It is necessary to do this a few times to get the button to activate. Then, you need to cycle your key in and out of the ignition for a couple of times to reset your fob's connection with the vehicle. Once the connection has been restored, you can remove the ignition key and unlock your car with the remote. Repeat the procedure until your fob is functioning again. If you cannot fix the fob using this method, it could be necessary to replace it. If key repairs decide to replace the fob, be sure it's programmed for your car's model and make.
Keychain Loop Breaks
If the key fob's keychain loop breaks off it could separate from your keys and cannot longer be used to lock or unlock your vehicle. The keychain loop can be easily replaced.
Damage from water or moisture could also cause key fobs to malfunction, with symptoms that include a reduced range of operation or even no function at any time. The problem can be resolved by replacing the battery and drying the key fob. However, in certain cases, repair or replacement by a professional might be required.
Key fob buttons can become worn out over time, leading to less functionality or a lack of responsiveness. This could necessitate a new key fob case or button replacement, but often the problem can be solved by changing the programming. Signal interference from nearby electronic devices may interfere with the connection between the key fob and the vehicle, causing problems with unlocking or locking. It is possible to conduct a diagnostic test at the dealership in order to resolve the issue. This is often the case for older electric key fobs, which operate on infrared signals. They require a clear line-of-sight in order to function however modern microchip keys use radio frequency challenge-response authentication to communicate with your vehicle.
Pairings that are lost or corrupted
Over time, keyfob batteries lose power. If the battery has lost a significant amount of its charge, the remote could no longer respond to commands. Replacing the battery will usually solve the issue, but you may also need to change the programming of the remote.
Key fobs found in modern cars are capable of controlling lots of functions. They can raise and lower the windows, activate the alarm and switch on the interior lights, and even start some vehicles. It is common for car owners to make a mistake and press the wrong buttons. It is recommended to keep your owner's manual close while using your key fob to be able to refer to the specific sections that deal with the various features of your car.
Another reason that causes a fob's malfunctioning is that the remote's signal has become corrupted or lost. Certain of the latest key fobs have sophisticated encryption technology to prevent thieves from intercepting the signals and creating remotes or keys that aren't authorized which can unlock your vehicle. To re-program the fob, you'll need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer.
Some automakers make their own instructions available for do-it-yourself key fob reprogramming. In most cases, these processes are easy enough to do at home. However, the procedure is generally not a good option for people who have no prior knowledge of electronics. This type of work should be left to experts.
Key fobs are subjected to a lot more wear and tear if used and handled frequently. The buttons of a key fob can be pushed around and the case may crack or break. Keep a spare remote with you at all time. This will help you save time if your remote breaks down when you're out and out and about. It is a good idea to keep it near your bed in the evening, as it will allow you to activate the panic button when you hear noises coming from the house at night.