How to Repair Car Key Fobs

Key fobs can be damaged even if we utilize them a lot. In fact, they could break down in a variety of ways.

Other issues can be more grave than the battery being dead. Most of problems can be fixed by a quick fix at home.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is probably the most common reason the car key fob stop functioning. Fob batteries drain quickly, especially if they're exposed to extreme conditions like humidity, temperatures or even water. Keep an extra battery in your wallet in case you require it.

It is easy to tell the moment the battery of your car key fob is running low by the fact that the LED light will cease to blink. It's also possible that the fob will no longer work at the same distance it did in the past. In this case, it may be necessary to reprogram the key fob or even replace it entirely.

It is easy to replace a car keyfob battery. First, you need to determine the kind of battery is used. The type of battery should be engraved on the back of your key fob. If you're unsure it is, a quick Google search will be helpful. The key fob can be opened across the seam after you have identified the battery type. Utilize a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail to break the two halves. Then, remove the old battery and insert a new one in its place. Be sure to insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards towards the buttons on the fob.

Some drivers may not be aware the fob is dead until they attempt to lock or unlock their vehicle and the buttons do not respond. This can be fixed by reprogramming your fob. However, it can be costly and time-consuming. You can also contact roadside assistance to determine whether they are able to restart your vehicle and get it back on the road.

If you've tried all of these options and your car still won't start and you're not sure why, it's time to call a professional. A certified technician will be able to determine if your car's computer system needs to be reprogrammed or if the fob requires an upgrade in battery. They can also recommend a reliable auto shop to replace your fob's keys. In the end, though, sometimes a brand new fob is the best solution.

Circuit Board Damage

Key fobs can withstand some physical abuse and isn't indestructible. The battery, the circuit board, and buttons all get their fair share of wear and tear with time It is therefore essential to be vigilant and take care of them to ensure that your car key fob working efficiently.

The easiest thing to check is to ensure that the battery inside your key fob isn't dead. If it is then replace the battery and determine if this fixes the problem. If this doesn't work, you may have to open the fob and clean its contact surfaces. It isn't easy to open certain key fobs due to the fact that they don't have an easy-release mechanism. You may damage your fob by trying break it. You can purchase a special tool to open your key fob, however you should always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid damaging it.

Another common problem is a damaged or faulty circuit board in the key fob. This could be due to many things, including moisture or dirt getting into the battery compartment. Software issues or even an accident firmware update could be the cause for this. If your key fob has stopped working completely, think about having it reprogrammed with a locksmith that specializes in this kind of work.

Radio interference is another possible cause. It could happen if are other wireless devices transmitting on the same frequency as your key fob, for instance a radar detectors and home security systems. If this is the case, you should consult with other device manufacturers to ensure that your key fob isn't being affected by their signals.

It's also possible that your key fob is equipped with an unreliable switch or electrical component that must be replaced. This is a harder fix, but you can find guides online that show you how to fix it yourself. It's important to be careful when doing this because the circuit boards inside your key fob are small and can break easily when handled rough. If you're doing this yourself, make sure to use a high quality SMT switch and solder it to the correct place.

Out Buttons Out Buttons

Car key fobs are prone to a lot wear and tear. They are prone to getting lost and spend a significant amount of time in your pocket or purse. Sometimes, this jostling can cause the buttons to wear out or stuck. A simple adjustment can solve the problem.

The majority of modern key fobs have sensors on them that can tell if they've been pressed. They're designed to do this so that they can reduce the likelihood of someone stealing your car. If the buttons on your key fob aren't responding when you press them, that's an indication that they're worn-out and need to be replaced.

car key repairs fobs also contain a circuit board inside them which transmits signals to your car. Those signals include commands to unlock and lock, as well as instructions to start your engine. If the circuit board inside your vehicle is damaged, then the key fob you have may not be able to unlock your vehicle or even start the engine. This type of damage is usually caused by water or blunt force.

You'll be able to tell that the buttons on your key fob are deteriorating when you press the buttons more than usual in order to get them working. Your fob might be unable to send a signal to your car or have a smaller range.

Contact a locksmith right away when you're not able to use the key fob for your vehicle. They can determine if the key fob is damaged or the cylinder of your ignition is worn out.

Fortunately, most key fobs for cars problems aren't complicated or serious. The best way to avoid being caught off guard by a malfunctioning key fob is to keep an extra key in your possession at all times. This will ensure that you're never trapped in a place because of the loss or malfunction of your key. If you lose your spare key, a professional locksmith can rekey it to work with your car's engine. They can also fix any internal damage to your key fob.

Broken Case

The case of a key fob does more than just protect the batteries and buttons. The case also houses the circuitry that executes all the electrical magic whenever you press the key fob button. The circuit board receives the signal from your key fob and sends it to your car.

If the board is damaged or dead the key fob won't be able to operate. A dead key fob may only need to be reprogrammed by your local auto locksmith, or dealer.

Another reason why your key fob may not be working is because the batteries are not working. The battery can be replaced at your home. You can find the replacement battery from the local auto parts store or online. These batteries aren't only for key fobs.

There are a variety of ways to open up a key fob to get inside it, depending on the type. A quick search on the internet will identify the type of key fob you have and the type of battery it uses. From there, you can buy a replacement and easily pop the old one out and put the new one in.


If you are repairing a damaged key fob, the primary goal is not to harm the circuit or buttons more. If you try to pry apart the key fob using a screwdriver or other hard edge, it could break the plastic or break the case. Luckily, a replacement case isn't expensive and you can purchase the entire fob and the electronics on eBay or Amazon for less than $40.

If your key fob isn't working look into whether the batteries are depleted or whether the circuit board is damaged. If this isn't the case, you can have it repaired quickly and inexpensively by a professional. If not, it may be time to replace the fob. Make sure to verify the warranty on any fob replacement or used purchased online.