Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home
If your remote key fob stops functioning, you might be tempted to visit a dealership to have it reset. Instead, you can try some simple fixes at home.
Start by replacing the battery. Hardware stores sell flat watch-style batteries that are affordable and easy to find. You can then take a look at the fob that you have purchased and look for buttons that are worn or out of the right place.
Dead Battery
The key fob is a tiny electronic device that allows you to lock or unlock your car. It utilizes the radio transmitter of a short range to transmit distinct codes to the receiver inside your vehicle. Key fob batteries last for a long period of time, but they can end up dying at any time. You can tell if the battery has gone out by examining the LED's light or trying to press one of the buttons. If the key fob won't respond, the battery has died and must be replaced.
Changing the battery in a key fob is easy and quick. It's as easy as opening the key fob, taking out the old battery, and replacing it with a new one. Fobs use small batteries, similar to those used in hearing aids or watches, that are available at all kinds of stores and home improvement centers. They're typically shaped like tiny coins with plus and minus symbols on the bottom. Refer to the owner's guide or the label on the fob that you have on your key if you aren't sure what type of batteries your key fob is using.
After key repair near me change the battery, your key fob should perform as expected. If it doesn't work it could be due to another issue with your car or the system that's the reason it isn't functioning correctly. If this is the situation, you'll need to contact roadside assistance to resolve the issue.
Based on the model and make of your vehicle, you may also be able to order replacement fobs for your keys through the internet or from a dealership. It's usually cheaper and less expensive to purchase a new key fob instead of to repair a broken one.
Buttons aren't responding
It could be due to a worn button sensor if you've driven for a long period of time and you notice that your keys aren't functioning. Rubberized buttons on most fobs can wear out with time. This can cause them to only function properly when you press them in a certain manner or under extreme pressure. This is a common issue for many fobs, and is easily fixed by following some simple DIY steps.
The fob transmits an unlocking signal to the receiver inside the car. If the receiver is damaged, it could stop receiving the signal, and stop the key from working to open or start the vehicle. The best option is to have a local mechanic inspect the receiver for damage. In many cases, this will be cost-free or at a minimal cost dependent on the model of your vehicle.
Key fobs that are utilized daily receive many uses and are often found in purses and pockets and purses, so it's no surprise that they can sometimes be finicky and work properly when press in a certain manner. This is an easy fix for most fobs as the buttons can be strengthened and fixed quickly using silicone and a little effort.
To get the buttons to work again, press and hold the locks and unlock buttons on your key fob until you hear a chime from your vehicle. You'll need to repeat this a few times in succession to trigger the button activate. Then, you'll need to switch your key into and out of the ignition in your car a few more times to reset the connection between the fob and the car. Once the connection is restored, unlock the key and you should be able unlock your vehicle with the remote. Repeat the process as needed to make sure your fob is working again. If you are not able to repair the fob following this process it could require replacement completely. If you decide to replace the fob, make sure that it is programmed for your vehicle's model and make.
Keychain Loop Breaks
If the key fob's plastic keychain loop is damaged it could break off from your keys and cannot longer be used to lock or unlock your car. Replacing the loop on your keychain is a simple solution.
Damage from water or moisture could also cause key fobs to malfunction with symptomatic problems including a diminished range of operation or no function at all. Drying the key fob and replacing the battery may solve the issue however sometimes a an expert repair or replacement is necessary.
Over time keys fob buttons may wear out and become less responsive or ineffective. It is possible to replace the key fob button or case however reprogramming is often able to solve the issue. Occasionally signal interference from nearby electronic devices can cause interference between the key fob and your car which can cause problems with locking or unlocking. This may require a diagnostic test by the dealership in order to troubleshoot and fix. This is usually the case for older electric keys that use infrared signals to operate. They require an optical line of sight. Most modern microchipped keys communicate with your car via the challenge-response method of authorization via radio frequency.
Pairings that are lost or corrupted
Over time, key fob batteries lose their charge. If the battery has lost all of its power the remote will no longer respond to commands. This problem is usually resolved by replacing the battery but it may also be necessary to re-program your remote.
Key fobs used in modern cars are capable of controlling lots of functions. They can raise and lower the windows, activate the alarm, turn on the interior lighting and even start certain vehicles. It is not uncommon for owners of vehicles to accidentally hit the wrong buttons. Keep the owner's manual close to hand when using your keyfob so you can quickly refer to the sections that cover your car's features.
A fob may malfunction because the remote signal has been damaged or lost. Certain of the latest key fobs have sophisticated encryption technology to stop thieves from stealing the signals and creating unauthorized key fobs or remotes that allow you to unlock your car. To reprogram the fob, you will need to visit a dealer or auto locksmith.
Some automakers make their own instructions for do-it-yourself key fob reprogramming. These processes are typically simple enough to be done at home. However, this is not the best choice for beginners without extensive knowledge of electronics. This type of work is best left to professionals.
Key fobs receive lots of wear and tear, especially when they are often used and handled. The buttons on a key fob may be tossed around and the case itself may crack or break. Keep a spare fob with you at all times. This will help you save time should your remote break down when you're out and out and about. It is a good idea to keep it by your bed in the evening, as it will allow you to activate the panic button in case you hear noises in the house at night.