The Best Repair Car Key Experts Are Doing Three Things How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Even though we use them a lot, key fobs are not indestructible. In fact, they are able to break down in many different ways.

Other issues could be more grave than the battery being dead. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be solved by a simple DIY fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is the most common cause of the key fob not functioning. Fob batteries tend to drain quickly, especially when they are exposed or humid temperatures or water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you need it.

The LED light will typically stop glowing when the battery in the car key fob is low. The fob might also stop working from the same distance that it used to. In this instance the key fob might need to be programmed again or replaced completely.

Fortunately replacing the battery in a car key fob is simple. Find out the type of battery used. The type of battery should be embossed in the side of your key fob. Google can help you if you're not sure. Once car remote key repair near me have found the battery type you want to use, open the key fob at the seam. You will need to use small flathead screwdrivers or even your fingernail to split the two halves. Then, you can remove the old battery and insert an alternative one in its place. Then, insert the new battery so that the positive (+) face is facing the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not be aware their fob is dead until they try to lock or unlock their car and the buttons aren't responding. In some instances, this can be solved by reprogramming your fob, but that can be costly and time-consuming. Another option is to contact roadside assistance and see if they can jump your vehicle and get you 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 to call an expert. A qualified technician can determine the computer in your car needs changing its programming, or if the fob simply needs replacement batteries. They can also recommend a reputable auto repair 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

Key fobs can withstand many physical abuses and is not impervious to destruction. Battery, circuit board and buttons are all susceptible to wear and tear. It is essential to take care of these parts to keep your key fob in good working order.

Make sure that the battery still working on your key fob. If it is, replace the battery and see if that fixes your issue. If not, you may require opening the key fob and clean the contact surfaces. It is sometimes difficult to open some key fobs since they don't have an easy release mechanism. You could cause damage to your fob by trying to break it. You can purchase a specific tool to open your key fob, but it is recommended to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to avoid damaging it.

Another issue that is common is a damaged or damaged circuit board in the key fob. This can be caused by a number of things, such as moisture or dirt that gets into the battery compartment software problems, or even an accidental firmware update. If your key fob isn't functioning, you might be interested in getting it reprogrammed. This can be accomplished by a locksmith who specializes in this work.

Radio interference is another possible cause. This can happen if there are other wireless devices transmitting on the same frequency your key fob, for instance radar detectors, home security systems. If this is the case, you should contact the other device manufacturer to ensure that your key fob won't be affected by their signals.

There may be a need to replace a switch or an electrical component in your key fob. This is a difficult fix, but you can find online guides that will show you how to fix it yourself. It is important to be cautious when doing this, though it is important to be careful, since the circuit boards inside the key fob are tiny and easily break if they are handled roughly. If you do this yourself, make sure to use a high quality SMT switch and then solder it in place correctly.

Buttons that are worn out

Car key fobs are prone to a lot wear and tear. They are susceptible to being dropped and spend a lot time being tossed around in your purse or pocket. Sometimes, this jolting can cause the buttons to wear out or snagged. In this case, a simple adjustment may be all it takes to make it work again.

Modern key fobs come with sensors that are able to detect when they have been press. This is because they reduce the possibility of someone taking your vehicle. If the buttons on your key fob don't respond when you press them, they're damaged and should be replaced.


Key fobs also contain an internal circuit board which transmits signals to your car. These signals include commands to unlock and lock your car, as well commands to start your engine. If your internal circuit board is damaged, then the key fob you have may not allow you to unlock your car or even start the engine. This kind of damage is typically caused by blunt force or water.

If you're having to press the buttons harder than usual to make them function If this is the case, then your key fob's buttons are wearing out. The fob may not be sending signals to your vehicle or have a shorter range.

Contact a locksmith right away when you're not able to use your key fob to start your vehicle. They'll be able to tell whether the key fob itself is damaged or if your ignition cylinder has worn out.

Fortunately, most key fobs for cars issues aren't very complicated or even serious. The best way to ensure you don't get surprised by a malfunctioning key fob is to have a spare in your possession at all times. You'll never be stranded because of a malfunctioning or lost key. Of course, if you do lose your spare car key, a locksmith can help change the key to work with your car's ignition. They'll also be able to repair any internal damage that has been caused to the key fob.

Broken Case

The case of the key fob does more than just protect the buttons and batteries. It also houses the circuit board that is responsible for doing all of the electrical magic when you press a button on your key fob. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob and transmits it to your car.

If this board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to operate. Sometimes, a dead key fob may need to be reprogrammed which is something your local auto locksmith or dealership can assist you with.

Another reason your key fob might not be working is because the batteries are dying. The battery can be replaced at your home. You can get a replacement battery at the local auto parts store or on the internet. These batteries aren't just for key fobs.

There are a variety of ways to open a key fob and get inside, based on the kind. A quick search online should show you which type of key fob you have and the type of battery it requires. You can then buy a new replacement and pop the old one out, and then insert the new one in.

If you are repairing a damaged key fob, the primary concern is not to damage the circuit or buttons further. When you try to break the fob using a hard edge like a screwdriver could break the case or scratch the plastic. Fortunately, a replacement case isn't expensive and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronic components from eBay or Amazon for less than $40.

So, if your key fob isn't functioning look into whether the batteries are dead or if the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the case, a professional will repair it for you quickly and cost-effectively. If not, it could be the time to purchase an upgrade. Be sure to look for a warranty on any replacement or used fobs you purchase on the internet.