The No. 1 Question That Anyone Working In Key Fob Repair Service Should Know How To Answer Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs take a beating. Buttons can get stuck or break based on how they are stored and how often they are tossed around.

Luckily, most issues with key fobs are simple to fix. Certain issues with key fobs are more serious, and require assistance from a professional. This is when a locksmith can be of assistance.

Dead Fob Battery

The car key fobs are pretty smart However, that doesn't mean that they don't occasionally become stuck in the "not responding zone". If this happens, it's usually time to replace the battery. But that doesn't always solve the issue, since you could also have a bad connection on one of the battery connector terminals.


Car manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they usually put a spare mechanical key inside the fob to be used in this kind of emergency. It is accessible by finding the small release button or latch on the back of the fob. (Check the user's manual to find out more). By pressing this button, you will be able to open the fob to reveal a physical key that you can use to open the car.

It is also necessary to be close to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. The transmitter of the fob loses energy when its battery is depleted. This limits its range.

It's relatively simple to replace the battery. You'll need to purchase the button-cell battery (which is similar to an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to make sure that the new battery was installed correctly.

Some key fobs are difficult to open, but you should be able to do it by locating the latch, switch or screw at the back of the fob and prying it apart. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to cause damage! If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, you can also send your key fob to a professional. Many auto shops will change batteries for fobs for a nominal fee as it's a common repair service. Some dealers will even do it for free, depending on the model and brand of your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Working

Replace the batteries if the key fob does not work. This is the fastest fix and will most likely fix the problem. If your fob is still not working after a change of battery, it could be due to damage or another issue that requires attention from a professional.

Damage can happen to your car's key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water or a damaged circuit board. These problems can prevent your key from sending a signal to the receiver in your vehicle, which could then prevent your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. You may need to have a professional replace your key if it's damaged.

Similarly, the buttons on your device may have worn out over time with repeated use. The rubber may wear out making the buttons less clicky or springy. They also may stop registering your presses. You may try wiping them down and adjusting them, however, it is usually best to get the fob examined by a professional to make more extensive repairs.

It is important to ensure that the battery you're using is a exact match to your fob. You can find a list with acceptable batteries online or at most hardware stores, and you must always consult the owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of your fob to determine what kind of battery it requires. A battery that isn't a perfect match can be unable to transmit powerful signals or providing sufficient power to the fob's internal components.

In some cases the issue could be related to the vehicle's electronic components or receiver. If you have an inductive backup system you can test it by opening the door with an actual key and beginning the car using the inductive backup (if there is). If your physical key doesn't open or start your vehicle, have a mechanic inspect the electronic components and receiver of your car to see whether they're functioning properly.

Fob is damaged

A key fob is composed of many parts, and one malfunction can cause other components to fail. If a key fob ceases functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's a cause obvious like a cracked case or a damaged internal component. Check the horn, lights and other components of the car to make sure they are functioning correctly.

It's better to replace the key fob if it is damaged than to attempt to repair it. The fob may need to be reprogrammed to the vehicle and this cannot be done at home, and it requires special equipment to do this.

The buttons on a key fob use contacts to send signals to the key fob's circuit board however, they will wear down over time. This is more common when you drop the device or leave it outside in hot weather.

The internal wiring of a key fob may be worn out over time. This can result in a button not working when it's pressed or only functioning when it's pressed very hard. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able to start or unlock once the fob has been used.

Most fobs come with a plastic cover which can be loosened and then cleaned with soap and water. This is a great way to bring a fob back to proper function, and it's a good idea to do this often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.

A damaged battery is usually the reason the key fob will not turn on or function. Most car dealers and mechanics can change the batteries quickly, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself you can purchase a battery from a hardware store or big-box retailer and follow the instructions in the owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob is damaged internal damage, such as cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded battery contact points. If any of the above is the situation, it's a good idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for advice for a replacement and assistance in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob Isn't Programming

The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and open the doors of your vehicle. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or seem to function intermittently. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other cases, it could involve a more complicated repair. The first step is to determine the reason why the fob isn't working correctly.

The most frequent reason for a fob not working is that it doesn't recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between the remote and your car is interrupted. You can sometimes reset this connection without having to call repair of your key fob.

Other issues could arise when the key fob isn't able to sends a strong signal. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is not functioning properly. In either event, try to reconnect your key with your car. This can be accomplished by following the instructions that came with the key fob. It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare key with you to make use of it in the event that the primary key isn't working.

The fob may not receive an adequate signal from the vehicle. This could be caused by a weak car battery, interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob to see whether this is the problem by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't illuminate when you press any of the buttons, it could be because the battery needs to be replaced or that the fob has been damaged.

car key fob repair near me on your car may prevent a fob from sending out a strong signal. This could happen if the fob's programming isn't correct to your vehicle, or it's a software problem.

If you can't fix the fob, or it's not worth the trouble to try to fix it, you need to purchase the new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options, and some can be delivered to your residence.