15 Unexpected Facts About Key Fob Repairs That You Never Knew
Key Fob Repairs
The batteries inside the key fob in your car's ignition will deplete over time. This problem can be fixed by a simple battery replacement.
Key fobs are convenient and useful, but they are also costly to replace when something goes wrong. Key fobs can generally be repaired and cost much less than replacing them at the dealer.
Dead Battery
Car key fobs are electronic devices that can open your doors and start the vehicle without needing to insert a physical key into locks. These devices communicate through radio signals with the internal systems of your car. If they fail to function, you'll need to fix them or locate an auto locksmith that is reliable to reprogram them. Some fobs come with backup batteries which can prevent you from getting stranded if the original battery dies.
A dead battery can be fixed easily. You can purchase replacement batteries for key fobs in the majority of grocery stores or department stores. Make sure you're purchasing the correct size as different key fobs require a certain kind of battery. Once you've got the new battery replace the old one and your key fob will begin working again.
If a new battery can't fix the issue your fob might be experiencing another issue. Damage caused by dropping, or mistreated over the years is a frequent reason for a fob to malfunction. Fobs that show signs of damage could need to be replaced and this is usually done at the dealership, where they can also program an alternative fob for you, if needed.
Additionally keys may also wear out from the wear and tear of time or exposure to dirt and grime. It is important to keep your keys clean. They are more likely to work effectively if they're dirty. This can be done using small brushes or a paper towel to remove any dirt or dust from the device.
Certain fobs don't have a clear spot to access the inside, which means you'll have to do a bit of dismantling. You should be very careful when you do this. To replace the battery, you'll have to find it and open the fob. This is not always easy and may require the use of a flathead screwdriver or a similar tool to open up the case. Some fobs can't be opened in any way, so if you're not confident in doing it on your own it's best to take it to a dealer to repair the issue.
If you are still having issues with your key fob despite trying some quick fixes, this could be an indication that something isn't right in your vehicle. This isn't a common occurrence however, it's worth a look in the case that a fob isn't working after a few simple fixes.
Contacts that are dirty
If your key fob doesn't work even after replacing the battery, you may have dirty contacts. These tiny contacts are rubbery and coated with an electrically charged film. They may wear out over time. This is something you can fix yourself with an item of metallic tape and punch. Take your fob apart and put a tiny dot of tape on each contact to reestablish the electrical connection.
You can also purchase replacement fobs from automotive shops. These are designed to reprogram themselves. These replacement fobs are usually cheaper than buying new ones from a dealer and could appear like the original.
Another option is using a spare key fob. This will allow you to determine if the problem lies in your fob or the vehicle itself. You can also check whether you can start your car using your key fob. This will help determine if the ignition switch is malfunctioning.
Then drop your key fob or other damage to it over time could result in the buttons not to work properly. Damage like this is sometimes repaired but it's usually recommended to replace the fob for safety reasons.
If you have a spare key, it can be very useful to keep in the glove box just in case your primary key begins to fail. Having love it in the event of an emergency can help you avoid getting stranded and save money by avoiding unnecessary expenses. If your key fob does not respond to your touch, you need to get it fixed as soon as you can to ensure your safety on the road. The good news is that most problems can be easily resolved and you don't need to return to the dealership for costly replacements.
Broken Case
Many car owners are tempted to purchase a low-cost key fob online and then try to replace theirs. This may seem like a good idea, but if the new fob doesn't have the same radio frequency as the old one, it won't work and you could end up spending more than you would if you went to a reputable auto mechanic for a repair that is professional.
A key fob may be inoperable if damaged or broken. This is a common issue and you can repair it without spending an enormous amount of money.
To repair a damaged case you will need to remove the battery. It's visible at the back of the key fob if the light is on. You'll require silicone that can be purchased at a hardware store or online. Put some silicone in the cracks or break on the bottom of your case. Fill the entire area. Put a piece of plastic on top of the silicone, and then insert the circuit card. This will ensure a good seal before the silicone has time to dry. (Ensure that the circuit card button has not been pressed during the process).
Next, use a small amount of clear tape to help reinforce the break. This will give the case more strength and prevent it from cracking in the future.
You might also want to apply a veneer. This is a cheap option to give your project an elegant appearance. It is done the similar way to applying clear tape. You can find veneer material in a craft or hobby shop or spend a few hours scouring flea markets to find materials that are used and cut down.
Some key fobs come with a special case that can be used to house the circuit board as well as buttons. If this is the case for yours, you might be able to move the circuit board out of your broken case into a new one. Certain models and brands are compatible, but not others. It's always recommended to have a technician check the replacement key prior to using it. They will be able to tell you if it is safe and will probably modify the vehicle if necessary.
Weak Signals
When you use your key fob to lock and start your vehicle, it has to have a physical metal key inside. If not, the key fob isn't able to open your car doors or start your engine. This is a simple problem that can be easily fixed by a local locksmith or auto parts store.
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It is important to remember that even if the physical component of your key fob appears great, you may need to get it reprogrammed. Modern keys need to be programmed to match your vehicle's VIN for them to function correctly, and the programming could become corrupted over time. In these situations it is advised to visit an automotive locksmith to have your fob properly programmed.
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