Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home

If your remote key fob stops working, you may be tempted to visit an authorized dealer to get it reset. Instead, Remote Key Fob Repairs 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 aren't in place.

Dead Battery

The key fob is an electronic device that makes it simple to lock or unlock your vehicle. It works by using an electronic radio transmitter that sends codes to a receiver inside your vehicle. Key fob batteries typically last for a long period of time, but they could end up dying at any time. You can usually detect if the battery been drained by looking at the LED light or trying to press one of the buttons. If the key fob will not respond it means the battery is dead and requires to be replaced.

It's simple and quick to change the battery in your key fob. It's usually as easy as opening the key fob, taking out the old battery and replacing it with a new one. Batteries for fobs are small, similar to those found in hearing aids or watches. They are available at home improvement stores and general stores. They're typically shaped like a small coin with plus and minus symbol on the bottom. If you're not sure what kind of battery your fob takes, consult the owner's manual, or look on the fob's own for the label.

The fob you have been using for your key should function normal. If it doesn't work, there could be an issue with your vehicle or its system that's causing it to not function properly. If this is the situation, you will need roadside assistance.

You could be able to purchase replacement keys from a retailer or online, depending on the make and models of your vehicle. It's typically cheaper and less expensive to purchase a new key fob instead of to repair a broken one.

Buttons are not responding

It could be a worn-out button sensor if you've driven for a long time and you notice that your keys aren't working. The buttons that are made of rubber on most fobs can wear out with time. This can cause them to work correctly when you press them in a certain manner or under extreme pressure. This is a common issue for many fobs, and can be easily fixed with 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 prevent the key from functioning to open or start the vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic inspect the receiver to determine if there is damage. In most cases, this is free or a small fee according to the make of your car.

It is not surprising that key fobs are frequently used and jostled in pockets and purses. They can become a bit finicky and only function properly when they are pressed in a particular manner. It is not difficult to fix most fobs because the buttons are reinforced with silicone and a bit of effort.

To get the buttons working again, first press and hold the locks and unlock buttons on your key fob until you hear a chime in your vehicle. This should be repeated several times to activate the button. Then, you need to cycle your key in and out of the ignition a several times to reset the fob's connection with the car. Once the connection is restored, release the key and you should be able to unlock your car with the remote. Repeat the process until your fob is working properly. If you're unable to fix the fob by following this method it could need to be replaced entirely. If you decide to replace it, make sure that the new key is programmed to work with your car model and make.

Keychain Loop Breaks

If the key fob's plastic keychain loop is damaged it will be separated from your keys and cannot longer be used to lock or unlock your vehicle. Replacing the loop on your keychain is a simple fix.

Damage from water or moisture could also cause key fobs to malfunction with a variety of symptoms, including reduced range of operation or even no function at all. Drying the key fob and replacing the battery could resolve the problem however, sometimes an expert repair or replacement is required.

Over time keys fob buttons may wear out and become less responsive or ineffective. This could necessitate the purchase of a new case for your key fob or replacement of the button, however usually, the issue can be solved by changing the programming. Occasionally signal interference from nearby electronic devices can cause interference between the key fob and the vehicle 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 with older electric key fobs, which operate on infrared signals. They require a clear line of sight to function, but most modern microchip keys use the challenge-response method of authentication using radio frequency to communicate with your vehicle.

Pairings that are lost or damaged

Over time, key fob batteries lose their charge, and if the battery has lost too much of its power the remote will not respond to commands. This problem is usually resolved by replacing the battery however, it could be necessary to re-program your remote.

Key fobs used in modern vehicles can perform a range of functions. They can raise and lower windows, turn off the alarm, switch on the interior lights and even start certain vehicles. It is easy for owners of vehicles to press the wrong buttons. Keep the owner's manual close at hand when you use your key fob where to repair car key remote easily refer to the sections that pertain to the car's features.

A fob may stop working because the remote signal has been corrupted or has been lost. Some of the newer key fobs have sophisticated encryption techniques to prevent thieves from intercepting the signals and creating remotes or key fobs that are not authorized which can unlock your vehicle. You will probably need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer to re-program the fob and restore its function.

Some automakers offer their own instructions for reprogramming the key fob of their vehicles. These procedures are usually simple enough to be done at home. This procedure is not recommended for those who do not have extensive knowledge of electronics. This type of work is best left to professionals.

Key fobs can suffer a lot more wear and tear if used and handled regularly. The buttons of a fob can be pushed around and the case may crack or break. Keep a spare remote with you at all times. This will save you time if your remote breaks down while you're out and about. It is ideal to keep it near your bed in the evening since it will allow you to press the panic button if you hear sounds in the house during the night.