Key Fob Repair Service

Key fobs can be subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can get stuck or break depending on how they are stored and how they are tossed around.

Fortunately, the majority of issues with key fobs are easy to resolve. Some key fob issues are more serious and require professional assistance. This is where a locksmith can come in handy.

Dead Fob Battery

The car key fobs are pretty smart, but that does not mean they won't sometimes get stuck on the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery when this happens. But that doesn't always solve the problem, because there could be a problem with the connection on one of the battery connector's terminals.

The car makers are aware of the potential problem, and they often add a second mechanical key inside the fob for use in an emergency. To access this, you can find the small release switch or latch on the back of the fob (check the user's manual for details). Pressing this will allow you to open the fob, and then gain access to the physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.

You will also need to be closer to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. This is because the fob's transmitter weakens when its battery dies, limiting its operating range.

The replacement of the battery is simple and relatively cheap. You'll need a button-cell battery (which resembles an elongated silver coin) and then follow the instructions in the user's guide to remove the old battery. Replace the battery in the same way that the previous one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). After reassembling your fob, test its lock/unlock and start functions to ensure that the new battery was placed correctly.

Certain key fobs may be a little tricky to open however, you should be able to open them by finding the latch, switch, or screw on the back of the fob, and prying it apart. You'll need the fob to work with your vehicle, so be careful not to harm it! If you're not comfortable doing this on your own then you can send your fob to a professional. Many auto shops will swap a fob's battery for a small fee, since it's such an often-used repair service. Some dealers will even offer to perform the swap for free, based on the model and brand of the car.

Fob Isn't Working

The first thing to do in the event that your key fob doesn't seem to be working is replace the batteries. This is the quickest fix and most likely what will fix the problem. If your fob is still not working after a change of battery, it could be due damage or another issue that requires professional attention.

The car key fob could be damaged for various reasons, including physical trauma or exposure to water or a corroded board. These problems can prevent your key from sending the signal to your receiver in your vehicle, which will stop your car's ignition or doors from locking. If your fob is damaged it's likely you will need a professional to replace the component or the entire device.

The buttons on your device may have worn away with repeated use. The rubber can wear out and make the buttons less springy or 'clicky' and may begin to fail to detect your press accurately. You could try wiping the buttons down and adjusting them, however, it is recommended to have the fob professionally examined for more extensive repairs.

Make sure that the battery you are using is exactly right for your fob. You can find a list of acceptable batteries online or in most hardware stores, and you must always consult the owner's manual or the engraving on the inside of the fob to determine the kind of battery it requires. A battery that isn't the perfect match may have issues transmitting strong signals or providing adequate power to the fob's internal components.

In very rare cases, it could be that the issue is not with your key fob but rather the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using the physical key to open the door, and then trying to start your car using the inductive backup system (if available). If your physical key doesn't open or start your car check with a mechanic the electronic and receiver components of your vehicle to determine if they are functioning correctly.

Fob Is Damaged

A key fob has numerous components that function together, and one failure can cause others to fail. If a keyfob stops working it's crucial to check for obvious causes like a cracked casing or a damaged component. Check the horn, lights and other parts of the vehicle to ensure that they are functioning properly.

It is better to replace the key fob if it is damaged than to attempt to repair it. It could be necessary to reprogram the fob for the car. This isn't something you can do at home, and requires specialized equipment.

Over time the contacts on the buttons of a key fob could wear out. This is especially true when you drop the device or leave it in a hot climate.

In time, the internal wiring in a key fob can also wear down. This could result in the button not working when it's pressed, or only working when it's pressing extremely hard. It could also result in the car not starting or unlocking when the fob is activated.

Most key fobs come with an outer cover made of plastic that can be removed and cleaned by using soap and warm water. This is a great way to help restore a key fob's functioning properly and it's a great idea to do this often to prevent dirt from damaging the insides.

A damaged battery is usually the reason the key fob will not work or turn on. Many mechanics and dealers are able to replace the battery quickly. If you are confident in installing the battery yourself, you can purchase a new one at an online store or hardware store and follow the instructions on YouTube or in the owner's guide.

The worst-case scenario is that the key fob has internal damage, such as cracks in the case, teeny electronic components that are not fully connected to the circuit board or bent or corroded contact points for batteries. If any of these are the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or the dealer for a recommendation on a replacement as well as assistance in programming it to your vehicle.

Fob is not programming

The car key fob is a convenient method to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. If they stop working, or are not working, it can be frustrating. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery, however, in other instances it may require an even more complex repair. The first step is determining why the fob doesn't work properly.


The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and the car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key fob repair.

Other problems can arise when the key fob no more sends a strong signal. g28carkeys.co.uk Links to an external site. can occur if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either event, try to reconnect your key to your car. This can be done by following the instructions that come with the key fob. It's also recommended to carry an additional key to make use of it in the event that the primary key isn't working.

The fob may not be receiving a strong signal from the vehicle. This could be due to an insufficient battery in the car or interference from wireless devices or a problem with the antenna. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the problem by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't light up when any of the buttons are press, the battery might need to be replaced or the fob may be broken.

An immobilizer on your car may hinder the fob from sending a strong signal. This could be the case in the event that your key fob isn't been programmed correctly or if there is a software problem.

If you're not able to solve the issue or it's not worth the hassle of trying to repair the fob, then think about buying a new one. There are low-cost alternatives from a variety of online retailers and some are even delivered to your doorstep.