Sophie Hall
A key fob that works one minute and the next is just plain irritating. You hit the button, nothing happens, and a few moments later it starts again.
This behaviour can be caused by signal interference but it is not the only possible reason for this. A dying battery, faulty buttons, or a malfunctioning receiver in the car can cause similar issues.
By knowing the most likely causes, it can assist you to know where to begin in your checking.
What is Key Fob Signal Interception?
When a person seeks entry, a key fob transmits an airborne signal to the car. The vehicle detects such signal and it activates the keyless entry to lock or unlock the doors.
In some cases, other electronics or powerful radio signals located near a transponder can disturb the communication. This will decrease the effective range of the fob for a period of time.
Interference is more apparent in certain regions. It might work fine at home but then it has difficulty pick up signals from a congested car park.
Common Signs of Signal Interference
This interference does not completely disable the operation of your key. You may notice:
- The remote only has limited range
- Locking requires several button presses
- Try the fob in a different location (can work better!)
- The problem appears only occasionally
- Moving the vehicle to other locations allows the key to work normally once again
If the problem accompanies you wherever you go, then maybe interference is not the root cause!
Check the Battery First
One of the easiest reasons behind an unreliable key fob is a weak battery.
Because of the low power of the battery, the signal may weaken slowly. The key fob may only work when you’re standing right next to the car.
Use the proper button type battery to replace the broken one in your key. If it clears up, no more research is necessary.
If the problem persists, you might need to have a look at the fob. When it comes to Audi car key replacement, this part of the process may mean both cutting and programming the new key, depending on make and model.
Could the Key Fob Be Damaged?
Signal performance can also be degraded by physical damage. Dust or moisture could enter the electronics through a cracked case.
If they just repeatedly drop their device, the circuit board itself can become damaged, or really put stress on some of those internal connections. At times, the worn buttons might not send the correct signal.
Check for cracks, damaged, or corroded parts or signs of water damage.
What if You Have to Replace the Key?
If the fob is internally broken or dead, going with replacement might be the practical choice.
Cutting a physical key is just part of the process. Though today, many vehicles may need electronic programming allowing the new key to talk to the vehicle.
The demands of BMW car key replacement can vary from one model and key system to another.
How to Avoid Future Problems?
You can safeguard your key fob by adopting a few simple habits:
- Replace weak batteries promptly
- Keep the fob away from water
- Avoid dropping it
- Available with/without a protective case (as needed)
- Avoid using heavy objects on the key ring
If your key only works sometimes, take note where and when the issue arises. A locksmith can use this information to determine the reason.
Explain to them what type and make/model/year of the car it is in an Audi car key replacement or BMW car key replacement request.
Final Thoughts
Interference is one cause of an intermittently or permanently broken key fob, but probably not the only one. Check the fob itself immediately and see if there is any physical damage.
If the problem persists in several places, professional testing can identify whether it is the key or the car. Taking action now may prevent a really inconvenient catastrophic failure.
Jordan Wood
