Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home
If your remote key fob stop working, you may be tempted to go to a dealership to have it changed. Instead, try a few quick fixes at home.
Start by replacing the battery. Flat watch-style batteries are inexpensive and readily available in hardware stores. 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 tiny electronic device, allows you to lock and unlock your vehicle. It uses a short-range radio transmitter to transmit distinct codes to the receiver within your vehicle. Key fob batteries usually last for a long period of time, but they could end up dying at any time. Look for the LED light or try pressing one of the buttons to determine whether the battery is dead. If the key fob does not respond it means the battery has failed and requires replacement.
It's quick and simple to replace the battery on your key fob. It's usually just a matter of opening the fob, pulling out the old battery, then inserting a new one. Fobs have tiny batteries, similar to those found in hearing aids and watches and are available at all kinds of stores and home improvement stores. They're usually shaped like small coins with plus and minus symbols on the bottom. Refer to car key repairs or the label on your key fob if you aren't sure what type of batteries your fob has.
The fob you have been using for your key should work normal. If it does not 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 case you'll need assistance at the roadside.
Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you might be able to buy replacement keys through the internet or from a dealership. Buying a new fob is typically the best option, since it will save you time and money as opposed to having to fix a broken one on your own.
Buttons aren't responding
If you've been driving for a while and notice that the keys' buttons aren't functioning, it could be an issue with worn out button sensors. Most fobs have rubberized buttons that can wear out over time, which can cause them to not function properly if they are pushed in a particular way or with extreme force. This is a problem that occurs with a lot of fobs and can be 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 will prevent the key from working to unlock or start the vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic inspect the receiver to check for damage. This service is typically free or costs only a small amount depending on your car's make.
The key fobs that are used daily get lots of use and are often tossed around in purses and pockets, so it is no surprise that they can sometimes be finicky and work properly when pressed a certain way. This is a simple fix for most fobs as the buttons can be reinforced and fixed quickly with some silicone and a bit of effort.
Press and hold the lock/unlock buttons on your keyfob until you hear the vehicle chime. This will need to be repeated several times in order to activate the button. The next step is to cycle your key into and out of the car's ignition several times more in order to reset the connection between the fob and your car. Once the connection is restored, you are able to remove the ignition key and then unlock your car using the remote. Repeat the process until the fob is working again. If you're unable to fix the fob following this process, it may need to be replaced entirely. If you have to replace it, ensure that the new key is programmed to work with your vehicle's make and model.
Keychain Loop Breaks
If the loop of plastic on the key fob gets damaged, it will no longer work to lock or unlock your vehicle. The keychain loop is easily replaced.
Damage from water or moisture could also cause key fobs to malfunction, with symptoms that include a diminished range of operation or no function at any time. Drying the key fob and replacing the battery may solve the issue, but sometimes repairs or replacements by a professional are required.
Over time keys fob buttons may wear out and become less responsive or ineffective. This could necessitate an entirely new key fob case or button replacement, but most of the time, the issue is solved by reprogramming. Signal interference from nearby electronic devices may affect the connection between your key fob and your vehicle, causing problems with locking or unlocking. This may necessitate a diagnostic test at the auto dealership to determine the cause and fix. This is often the case for older electric key fobs that use infrared signals and require a clear line of sight to function however modern microchipped key fobs use challenge-response authentication over radio frequency to connect with your vehicle.
Corrupted or Lost Pairing
Over time the batteries of key fobs lose their charge. If the battery has lost too much of its power the remote will not respond to commands. Replacing the battery can usually fix this problem, but you may also have to change the programming of the remote.
Key fobs used in modern cars are capable of controlling lots of functions. They can raise and lower windows, trigger the alarm, turn on the interior lights, and even start some vehicles. It is not uncommon for owners of vehicles to accidentally press the wrong buttons. Keep the owner's guide close at hand when you use your keyfob so you can easily refer to the sections that cover the car's features.
A fob may not function because the remote signal is damaged or lost. Some of the more modern key fobs have sophisticated signal encryption technologies to stop thieves from stealing the signals and generating unauthorized key fobs or remotes that allow you to unlock your car. You will probably need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer to reprogram your fob and restore its functionality.
Some automakers provide their own instructions for reprogramming key fobs. These processes are typically easy enough to do at home. This procedure is not recommended for novices who don't have a lot of experience with electronics. This type of work should be left to experts.
Key fobs receive lots of wear and tear, especially when they are often used and handled. The buttons of a key fob could be pushed, and the case can break or crack. Keep a spare fob with you at all time. This will help you save time should your remote break down when you're out and out and about. Keep it close to your bed at all times, so you can activate the panic button in the event that you hear noises during the night.