Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home

You may be enticed when your remote key fob isn't working to bring it to a dealer to get it changed. Instead, try some quick fixes at home.

Start with a replacement battery. Hardware stores carry flat watch-style batteries that are inexpensive and easy to find. Examine the key fob for worn buttons or ones that are out of place.

Dead Battery

The key fob is an electronic device that makes it simple to lock or unlock your vehicle. It uses a short-range radio transmitter to send unique codes to the receiver within your vehicle. Key fob batteries last for a lengthy period of time, however they may end up dying at any time. Look for the LED light or press one of the buttons to determine if it's dead. If the key fob will not respond it means the battery is dead and has to replaced.

The process of replacing the battery in the key fob is simple and quick. It's usually a matter of opening the fob and pulling out the old battery before inserting the new one. Fobs have tiny batteries, similar to the ones found in watches or hearing aids and are available in general stores and home improvement stores. They're typically shaped like tiny coins with plus and minus symbols on the bottom. If you're unsure of the kind of battery your key fob is using, check the owner's manual, or look on the fob's own for a label.

After you have changed the battery, your key fob should function as usual. However, if it doesn't then there could be a issue with your car or its system that's causing the fob to not function properly. If this is the situation, you'll need help from a roadside service to resolve the issue.

You may be able order replacement keys from a retailer or online, based on the model and make of your vehicle. Buying a new fob is typically the best option, as it can save your time and money when compared to having to fix the broken one by yourself.

Buttons Are Unresponsive

It could be worn out button sensor if you've driven for a long period of time and notice that your keys aren't functioning. Most fobs have rubberized buttons which wear out over time, which may cause them to not function properly if they are pushed in a particular way or with extreme force. This is a common problem for many fobs, and can be easily fixed with some simple DIY steps.

To unlock the vehicle the fob transmits an alert to the receiver in the car. If the receiver is damaged, it may stop receiving the signal and the key won't be able to open or start your vehicle. The best solution for this is to have a local mechanic examine the receiver for damage. This is usually cost-free or just little, depending on the car's model.

It's not surprising that key fobs are frequently used and jostled in pockets and purses. They can become a bit finicky and only function when pressed in a certain way. This is a simple fix for the majority of fobs, as the buttons can be strengthened and repaired quickly with some silicone and a little effort.

To enable the buttons again, first press and hold the locks and unlock buttons on your key fob until you hear a sound in your vehicle. This should be repeated several times to activate the button. Next, cycle your key in and out of the ignition for a couple of times to reset your fob's connection to the car. Once the connection is restored, you are able to remove the ignition key and unlock your car with the remote. Repeat the process until your fob is working properly. If you cannot repair the fob by this method, it might be necessary to replace it. If you decide to replace the fob, make sure it's programmed to match your vehicle's model and make.

Keychain Loop Breaks

If the plastic loop of the key fob gets damaged, it will no longer function to lock or unlock your vehicle. Replacing the loop on your keychain is an easy solution.

Moisture and water damage might also cause key fobs to malfunction, with a variety of symptoms, including reduced range of operation or even no function at all. The problem can be resolved by replacing the battery and drying the key fob, however in some cases repair or replacement by a professional might be required.

Key fob buttons can get worn out over time, car key fob repair service leading to reduced functionality or unresponsiveness. This may require the purchase of a new case for your key fob or replacement of the button, however usually, the issue is solved by reprogramming. Signal interference from nearby electronic devices can sometimes affect the connection between the key fob and the vehicle which can cause issues in unlocking or locking. It may be necessary to conduct a diagnostic test at the dealership in order to resolve the issue. This is typically the case for older electric keys that use infrared signals for operation and require the use of a line-of-sight. Modern microchip keys communicate with your car via radio frequency to authorize a challenge.

Pairings that are lost or corrupted

Over time keysfob batteries deplete power. If the battery has lost a significant amount of its charge, the remote could no longer respond to commands. This issue is usually fixed by replacing the battery however, it could be necessary to re-program the remote.

Modern cars come with key fobs that can control a variety of functions. They can lower and raise the windows, activate the alarm, turn on the interior lights and even start certain vehicles. It is easy for car owners to hit the wrong buttons through accident. Keep the owner's manual close by when using your keyfob so you can easily refer to the sections that cover your car's features.

Another reason that can cause a fob to stop working is that the signal has been damaged or gone missing. Some of the latest key fobs use sophisticated technology for encryption of signals to prevent thieves from intercepting signals and generating unauthorized remotes or key fobs that allow you to unlock your car. To reprogram the fob, you will need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer.

Some automakers make their own instructions for reprogramming key fobs yourself. These procedures are usually simple enough to perform at home. This process is not recommended for beginners who do not have a lot of knowledge of electronics. It is better to leave this type of work to professionals.

Key fobs are subjected to wear and tear if they're used and handled frequently. The buttons of a key fob could be pushed and the case could break or crack. It is essential to keep an extra key fob with you at all times, since it can help you save time and hassle if your remote stops working while you're out and about. Keep it near your bed at all times, so that you can press the panic button in the event that you hear sounds at night.