Fixing Key Fob Problems

As vehicles become more technologically advanced, keyless entry and push-button starters enabled by a wireless key fob are becoming the norm. Convenient and able to unlock and start your vehicle from a pants pocket or purse, key fobs are also susceptible to wear and tear and may require troubleshooting or key fob replacement from time to time.

WHAT IS A KEY FOB?

The key fob or key ring is a small electronic device that may or may not include a physical key for turning in a lock or ignition. The electronics on the key fob allow drivers to access a vehicle and start it, often without an actual, physical key. Modern key fobs often don’t need to leave a purse or pocket to do their jobs—allowing them to unlock, lock, and start a vehicle by simply being in close enough proximity. Key fobs that operate on proximity to the vehicle do so by constantly sending out a low-powered signal. When this signal is picked up by on-board receivers in the vehicle, access is granted.

In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most common problems with automotive key fobs drivers encounter and address how to fix them.

DEAD KEY FOB BATTERY

Although lithium battery technology is fantastic and the batteries on board most key fobs will last for years, they do occasionally need replacement. Most key fobs use common, easy-to-find batteries, so learning how to change battery in key fob isn’t a big deal. But if it is, you can also have them replaced either at a dealership or a locksmith for minimal cost. In some cases, you may be able to replace the battery yourself.  

KEY FOB NEEDS REPROGRAMMING

Sometimes replacing the fob batteries or subjecting it to a shock by dropping it can cause the key fob to need reprogramming. When this happens, the fob needs to be re-paired with the receiver on the vehicle to get things moving again. This process, while inconvenient when it happens, can usually be done by a locksmith or your auto dealer.  

DAMAGED TRANSMITTER OR RECEIVER

The key fob for your vehicle works by sending a signal from its transmitter to a receiver on the vehicle that’s constantly looking for this signal. If either the transmitter or receiver are damaged in some way, this can prevent the key fob from working properly. Since this problem mirrors problems with the key fob losing its pairing to the vehicle, it can be difficult to diagnose. If you’ve tried reprogramming your key fob and it’s still not working, call your mechanic for more in-depth help.  

WATER DAMAGE

While sudden, abrupt shocks can damage the internals of your key fob, water can do the same thing. Since it’s an electronic component with batteries, circuits, and wiring, getting water inside the key fob can cause damage to these components and prevent the fob from working.