Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are exposed to many abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break depending on the way they are stored and how they are thrown around.
Luckily, most issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. However, some issues are more serious and will require professional help. This is where locksmiths help.
Dead Fob Battery
Car key fobs have gotten quite intelligent however that doesn't mean they don't occasionally get stuck in the "not responding" zone. It's time to replace your battery if this occurs. However, this doesn't always fix the problem, because there could be an issue with one of the battery connector's terminals.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they usually put a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just such an emergency. To gain access to this, locate the small release switch or latch behind the fob (check the user manual for more details). By pressing this, you will be able to unlock the fob and gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your vehicle.
Another sign that your fob's battery is dying is that you have to be a lot closer to your car in order to open and lock it than before. This is due to the fact that the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery dies which limits the range of operation.
Replacing the battery is easy and relatively cheap. You will need to purchase a button-cell battery (which resembles a small silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user manual to take out the old battery. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling the fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to make sure that the new battery was installed correctly.
You can unlock some key fobs by looking for the latch, screw or switch on the back, and then tearing the fob off. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to damage it! If you're not comfortable doing this yourself it's also possible to take your key fob to an expert. Many auto shops will swap the battery of a fob at a minimal cost, since it's such a common repair service. Some dealers might even do it for no cost dependent on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob not working
The first thing you need to do if your key fob isn't working is to replace the batteries. This is the most efficient solution and will most likely fix the problem. If your device is not working after a change of battery, it may be due to damage or another issue that requires professional attention.
The car key fob could be damaged due to a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water, or a damaged or corroded board. These issues could stop your key from sending the signal to the receiver inside your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from unlocking. You may need to get a professional replacement for your fob if it is damaged.
The buttons on your device may have worn away with repeated use. g28carkeys.co.uk can wear away and make the buttons less clicky or springy. They may also cease to register your presses. You can try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this resolves the issue, but it's usually recommended to send the fob to have it professionally examined for more comprehensive repairs.
You should also double check that the battery you're using is a precise match for the fob you're using. You can find a list on the internet or in many hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If the battery is not the correct fit it could be a problem transmitting strong signals or providing enough power to internal components.
In very rare cases, it could be that the issue is not with your key fob but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door and then trying to start your car with the inductive backup system (if available). If your key's physical counterpart does not work or open your car, you should have a mechanic check the electronic components and the receiver to make sure they are working properly.
Damaged Fob
A key fob is made up of many parts, and one malfunction can cause other components to fail. If a key fob stops functioning, it's vital to determine whether there's a cause obvious such as a damaged case or a broken internal component. Check the horn, light and other components of the car to make sure they are functioning correctly.
If the key fob is damaged, it's recommended to find a replacement at your dealership or an auto locksmith instead of trying to repair it. It may be necessary to reprogramme the fob to the car. This isn't something you can do at home and requires specialized equipment.
Over time, the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is especially common if the device is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
The internal wiring of a key fob may also wear out over time. This can result in the button not working when it's pressed or only working when pressed very hard. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able to start or unlock when the fob is used.
Most key fobs have an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned with soap and warm water. This can bring a keyfob back to its original function. It's also a good idea to clean it often to avoid dirt damaging the inside.
A faulty battery is typically the reason why a key fob will not turn on or work. Most car dealers and mechanics can replace the batteries quickly, but if you feel at ease doing it yourself, you can buy a battery from a hardware store or big-box retailer and follow instructions in your owner's manual or on YouTube to install it.
The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks within the case, tiny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If you observe any of these problems you should contact an auto locksmith or a dealer to get a replacement key fob and help in programming it to your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
Car key fobs are a handy option that lets you unlock your car doors and start the engine. They can also cause frustration when they stop working or appear to function intermittently. In some cases, the problem may be as simple as replacing the battery, but in other situations it may require an intricate repair. The first step is to figure out the reason for the fob not functioning properly.
One of the most frequent reasons for a malfunctioning fob is that it is no longer able to recognize your vehicle. This could happen if the connection between your remote and your car is broken. You may be able to reset this connection without needing repair of your key fob.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other problems can be experienced. This could happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to resync your key with your car. This can be done by following the instructions that come with the key fob. You should also have a spare car keys in the event that your primary key fails.
It's possible that the fob isn't getting a strong enough signal from the car. This can be due to weak batteries in the car, interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. You can test the fob to determine if this is the issue by using an external tester. If the tester does not light up when you press one of the buttons, it could be because the battery is in need of replacement or the fob is been damaged.
Another possible reason for the fob not transmitting a strong enough signal is that the immobilizer system in your car is blocking it from doing so. This can occur if your key fob hasn't been properly programmed or there is a software problem.
If you can't fix the fob or it's not worth the effort to fix it, you should purchase an entirely new one. There are low-cost options from many online retailers, and some of these can be delivered directly to your doorstep.