Remote Key Fob Repairs You Can Do at Home

You may be tempted, if your remote key fob isn't working and you are unable to use it, to take it to the dealership to have it reset. Instead, you can try some simple fixes at home.

Begin by replacing the battery. Flat watch-style batteries are inexpensive and easy to find at hardware stores. Take a closer look at the key fob and check for buttons that are worn out or out of the right place.

Dead Battery

The key fob, which is a tiny electronic device, makes it simple to lock and unlock your vehicle. It uses a radio transmitter which transmits codes to a receiver inside your car. Key fob batteries last for a long amount of time, but can end up dying at any time. You can detect if the battery gone out by examining the LED light or trying to press one of the buttons. If the key fob doesn't respond then the battery is dead and requires replacement.

It is quick and easy to replace the battery on your key fob. It's typically opening the fob and taking out the old battery before putting in a new one. Fobs use small batteries, like the ones found in hearing aids or watches and are available at general stores and home improvement stores. They're typically shaped like a small coin with a plus and minus symbol on the bottom. Refer to the owner's guide or the label on your key fob if you aren't sure what type of batteries your fob has.

After changing the battery, your key fob should perform as expected. If it does not, there may be another problem with your car or its system that's causing the fob not to work properly. If this is the case, you will need roadside assistance.

Based on the model and make of your vehicle, you could also be able to order replacement key fobs on the internet or from a dealer. A new key fob is typically the best option, since it will save you time and money compared to having to fix a broken one on your own.

Buttons aren't responding

If you have been driving for a while, and you notice that the buttons on your keys aren't functioning it could be due to an issue with worn out buttons or sensors. Most fobs feature rubberized buttons that can wear out over time, which could cause them to only work correctly when they are pushed in a certain manner or with a lot of force. This is a common problem for many fobs, and can be solved by following a few DIY steps.

The fob transmits an unlocking signal to the car's receiver. If the receiver is damaged it might not receive the signal and the key won't operate to unlock or start your vehicle. The best solution for this is to have a local mechanic examine the receiver for damage. This is usually free or only costs an amount that is based on your car's make.

Key fobs that are used daily get lots of use and are often jostled around in pockets and purses which is why it's not a surprise that they sometimes become finicky and only function properly if they are press in a certain manner. This is an easy fix for most fobs as the buttons can be reinforced and fixed quickly with a little silicone and a bit of effort.

To get the buttons to work again, press and hold the locks and unlock buttons on your key fob until you hear a chime from your vehicle. You will need to do this several times in a row in order to get the button to activate. Next, you will need to switch your key into and out of the ignition of your car a few more times to reset the connection between the fob and the car key fob repairs. Once the connection is restored, you can unlock the key and you should be able to unlock your vehicle with the remote. Repeat the process as needed to make sure your fob is working again. If you are unable to fix the fob using this method, it could be necessary to replace it. If you have to replace it, ensure that the new key is programmed to work with your car make and model.

Keychain Loop Breaks

If the key fob's keychain loop is damaged, it can separate from your keys and can no longer be used to lock or unlock your vehicle. Replacing the loop on your keychain is a simple fix.

Key fobs may also fail due to moisture and water damage. Symptoms include a reduced range of operation, or even no function at all. The issue can be solved by replacing the battery and drying the key fob, however in certain cases, repairs or replacements by a professional may be required.

Over time, key fob buttons can wear out and become less responsive or ineffective. This might require an entirely new key fob case or button replacement, but usually, the issue is solved by reprogramming. Signal interference from electronic devices nearby may interfere with the connection between your key fob and vehicle, causing problems with locking or unlocking. This may require a diagnostic test by the dealership in order to determine the cause and fix. This is usually the case with older electronic keys that use infrared signals for operation and require the use of a line-of-sight. Modern microchip keys communicate with your car via challenge-response authorization over radio frequency.

Pairings that are lost or corrupted

Over time the batteries of key fobs lose their charge, and if the battery has lost all of its power, the remote won't respond to commands. The replacement of the battery is usually enough to solve the issue, but you may also need to change the programming of the remote.

Modern cars come with key fobs that allow for a variety of functions. They can lower or raise the windows, activate alarms, turn on the interior lights, and even start certain vehicles. As a result, it is possible for owners to use the wrong buttons due to accident. It is recommended to keep your owner's manual close when you use your key fob, so that you can refer to the specific sections that deal with the various functions of your car.

Another common reason for the fob to cease working is that the remote's signal has become damaged or gone missing. Some of the more modern key fobs use sophisticated encryption techniques to prevent thieves from intercepting the signals and creating remotes or keys that aren't authorized that allow you to unlock your car. To reprogram the fob, you'll need to visit a dealer or auto locksmith.

Certain automakers offer their own instructions for reprogramming the key fob of their vehicles. These procedures are often simple enough to be done at home. This procedure is not recommended for those who do not have a lot of experience in electronics. This kind of work should be left to experts.

Key fobs are subjected to more wear and tear if used and handled regularly. The buttons on a fob are susceptible to being pushed around, and the case could break or crack. Keep a spare fob on your person at all times. This will save you time should your remote break down while you're out and about. It is recommended to keep it near your bed in the evening since it will allow you to hit the panic button when you hear noises in the house at night.