Fob Gone Dead? Work Through These Checks First

Key fobs that abruptly stop working are inconvenient, and some owners might believe that they cannot use their old devices anymore. However, the problem may be much simpler and solvable than the loss of keys or the requirement to go to a repair service.

Typical signs that the battery of the key needs changing are:

• Lower operating range.
• Multiple pressing of the buttons.
• Intermittent operation of the key.

Battery replacement is cheap and quick, that is why it is worth doing before taking other actions.

Test the spare key

• One should check whether the spare key operates normally. When the spare works fine, then there is something wrong with the key in use.
• When none of them functions properly, the reason may lie in the vehicle.
• Spare keys serve two purposes, the first is in case of emergency situations and the second is for testing for possible malfunction of a secondary device.

Use the concealed metal key

Most key fobs nowadays have a hidden emergency key within the plastic cover itself, moreover some push-to-start vehicles feature a special spot to put the key fob in case its battery fails.

You can use your owner's manual to figure out how to do it. It will allow you to unlock and start your car even if its key fob is dead.

Look for any physical damage to the key fob

Inspect the key fob carefully to see if it has been damaged in any way, if you notice cracked housing, a broken battery compartment, worn-out buttons or if you suspect there are inner damages caused by dropping can result in issues.

Key fob functionality can be affected by heat, so if your vehicle was parked in the open on hot days, it might affect the key fob. Letting it cool down may improve the situation.

Can the key fob loose its connectivity?

Key fob programming can get lost because of changing its battery, electrical faults, or other vehicle-related reasons. Some vehicles provide you with the ability to program the key fob manually, for others professional diagnostics and tools will be needed. In case the key fob battery is brand new and there are no signs of damage to it, the issue is probably related to programming.

When would it be appropriate to call on an automotive locksmith?

After checking the battery by replacing it, after trying another key fob and after inspecting the device for any defects, the only solution is to consult a professional if nothing else helps.

An exprt locksmith can diagnose if the fob:

• Needs programming.
• Has malfunctioned inside.
• Should be replaced.
• Has any other related problems connecting with the vehicle.

Often, mobile services can visit the customer's place and solve his problems without him visiting a repair center.

How to extend the life of your key fob?

These basic things will prolong the serviceability of the key:

• Replace batteries early.
• Protect the key from exposure to water.
• Avoid accidental drops.
• Replace cracked key fobs.
• Keep the spare fob somewhere.

Taking care of the fob will prevent its failure and subsequent problems.

Does your key fob really needs to be replaced?

Typically, the fob is non-functional because of an easily solvable problem, low battery, damage, or the loss of connection. First, check those aspects to avoid useless expenditures.

Still stuck with a faulty car key, rest assured that we offer mobile fob programming and key replacement throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding areas.