Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home
You may be enticed if your remote key fob isn't working to take it to a dealership to get it changed. Instead, try some quick fixes at home.
Start by replacing the battery. Hardware stores carry flat watch-style batteries that are inexpensive and easy to find. Take a closer look at the key fob and look for buttons that are worn or out of place.
Dead Battery
The key fob, a small electronic device, makes it easy to lock and unlock your vehicle. It is a radio transmitter which transmits codes to a receiver within your car. Key fob batteries usually last for a long time, but they could end up dying at any time. Examine the LED light, or press one of the buttons to see whether it's dead. If the key fob doesn't respond it means the battery has failed and requires replacement.
Changing the battery in the key fob is simple and quick. It's usually just opening the fob, pulling out the old battery, then installing a new one. Fobs have tiny batteries, similar to those used in hearing aids or watches which are sold at all kinds of stores and home improvement centers. They're typically shaped as a small coin and have plus and minus symbols on the bottom. Consult your owner's guide or the label on your key fob if you aren't sure which batteries your fob uses.
After changing the battery your key fob will function as usual. If it doesn't work, there could be another issue with your car or the system that is making it not work correctly. If this is the situation you'll require roadside assistance.
You can purchase replacement keys from a retailer or online, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. The purchase of a new key fob is the most efficient option, as it can save you time and money compared to having to fix an old one on your own.
Buttons aren't responding
It could be due to a worn button sensor if you've been driving for a long time and notice that your keys aren't functioning. Most fobs feature rubberized buttons that can wear out over time, which may cause them to work correctly if they are pushed in a particular way or with extreme force. This is a problem that occurs for a lot of fobs and can be easily fixed with some simple DIY steps.
To unlock the vehicle, the fob sends an alert to the receiver inside the car. If the receiver is damaged, it may stop receiving the signal and the key will not be able to open or start your car. This can be fixed by having your mechanic inspect the receiver to determine if there is damage. In most cases, this will be free or a small fee according to the make of your vehicle.
It is not surprising that key fobs are often 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 most fobs since the buttons can be reinforced and repaired quickly with a little silicone and a bit of work.
Press and hold the lock and unlock buttons on your keyfob until you hear the vehicle sound chime. It is necessary to do this a few times in succession to trigger the button activate. Next, you will need to cycle your key into and out of the ignition in your car several times more in order to reset the connection between the fob and the car. Once the connection has been restored, you are able to remove the key from the ignition and then open your car with the remote. Repeat the process as necessary to ensure that your fob is functioning again. If you are not able to repair the fob following this process it might require replacement completely. If you decide to replace the fob, you must make sure that it is programmed for your car's model and make.
Keychain Loop Breaks
If the key fob's keychain loop gets damaged it will break off from your keys and can no longer be used 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 symptoms that include a diminished range of operation or no function at all. The problem can be resolved by replacing the battery and drying the key fob, however in some cases professional repair or replacement may be required.
Key fob buttons might get worn out over time, resulting in less functionality or a lack of responsiveness. This may necessitate a new key fob case or replacement of the button, however most of the time, the issue can be solved by changing the programming. Occasionally, signal interference from nearby electronic devices could affect the connection between the key fob and your vehicle, leading to problems with locking or unlocking. This could require a diagnostic test at the dealership to determine the cause and fix. This is often the case with older electronic key fobs that operate using infrared signals and require clear line-of-sight in order to function however modern microchipped key fobs use the challenge-response method of authentication using radio frequency to communicate with your vehicle.
Lost or Corrupted Pairing
Over time keysfob batteries deplete power. If the battery has lost a significant amount of its charge, the remote may not respond to commands. Replacing the battery can usually solve the issue, but you may also have to change the programming of the remote.
Modern cars have key fobs that allow for various functions. They can raise and lower the windows, activate the alarm as well as turn on the interior lighting, and even start some vehicles. It is easy for car owners to accidentally use the wrong buttons. Keep the owner's manual close by when using your keyfob so you can easily refer to the sections that address your car's features.
Another common reason for a fob to stop working is that the remote's signal has been corrupted or lost. Some of the more modern key fobs use sophisticated encryption technology to stop thieves from stealing the signals and creating remotes or key fobs that are not authorized which can unlock your vehicle. You'll probably have to visit an auto locksmith or dealer in order to reprogram your fob and restore its function.
Some automakers make their own instructions available for do-it-yourself key fob reprogramming. Most of the time, these procedures are simple enough to be done at home. This method is not recommended for beginners who do not have a lot of experience in electronics. This kind of work is best left to experts.
Key fobs undergo plenty of wear and tear, especially when they are often used and handled. The buttons on a fob are susceptible to being pushed around, and the case itself may crack or break. It is essential to have a spare key fob with you at all times since it can save you time and trouble in the event that your remote ceases to function while you're out and wandering around. Keep car remote key repair to your bed at all times, so that you can press the panic button in case you hear sounds at night.