Key Fob Not Working in Dartford

If your key fob is not working in Dartford, we can help you quickly and safely regain control of your vehicle. Whether the buttons don’t respond, the car won’t unlock, or push-to-start won’t recognise the fob, our mobile auto locksmiths diagnose and fix key fob problems across Dartford and the DA postcode area. We handle key fob repair, key fob programming, and fast replacement for all major makes and models—using dealer-level diagnostics and non-destructive methods wherever possible.

When You Need Key Fob Repair or Replacement

A faulty car key fob can leave you stranded or locked out at the worst time. Common symptoms include:

• Key fob not responding to unlock/lock buttons
• Intermittent operation or very short range
• Car won’t start with push-to-start, “Key Not Detected” message
• Central locking works with the blade key but not the remote
• Red key symbol or immobiliser light flashing on the dash
• Key fob stopped working suddenly after battery change
• One button works (e.g., lock) but others don’t (e.g., unlock, boot)
• Fob works near the car but not from normal distance

Typical scenarios we fix every day:

• Dead or weak fob batteries, corrosion on battery contacts
• Desynchronised remote needing reprogramming
• Transponder chip or PCB (circuit board) faults
• Damaged buttons, switches, or key blade hinges (flip key repair)
• Water damage from rain or a wash cycle
• Lost coding after a flat car battery or jump start
• ECU/immobiliser communication issues on certain models

If you’re locked out now or stuck roadside, our car unlock service in Dartford gets you into the vehicle first—then we repair or replace the faulty fob so you can get back on the road.

How We Fix a Faulty Key Fob

Our process is methodical and designed to save you time and money versus a main dealer, with full mobile coverage across DA postcodes.

1. On-site Diagnosis

• Inspect the key fob casing, PCB, buttons, and battery contacts
• Read faults and immobiliser status using dealer-level OBD2 diagnostics
• Assess antenna/receiver response and central locking behaviour
• Test the transponder chip and remote signal strength/frequency

2. Quick Fixes and Repairs

• Professional battery replacement and terminal clean-up
• Button and microswitch repair; key blade replacement for flip keys
• PCB repair where viable; seal replacement to improve water resistance
• Re-synchronisation procedures for remotes that have lost pairing

3. Key Fob Programming and Coding

• Remote key programming for most brands (Ford, VW, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Vauxhall, Toyota, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover, and more)
• Transponder key programming to the immobiliser using OBD2
• Smart key programming for keyless entry and push-to-start systems
• ECU/immobiliser programming and, where required, EEPROM work for models that need deeper coding

4. Replacement Options When Repair Isn’t Viable

• Genuine-quality remote fobs and smart keys supplied and programmed
• Proximity key replacement and keyless entry fob replacement
• Cut and code a new blade with laser-cut accuracy if needed
• Deactivate lost or stolen fobs for peace of mind

We use non-destructive methods wherever possible. In rare cases where invasive work is unavoidable (e.g., severe lock failure or water-logged electronics beyond repair), we’ll explain your options clearly before proceeding.

Why Choose Our Dartford Auto Locksmiths

• Local and Mobile in Dartford
  Based in Dartford with rapid dispatch across DA postcodes, including Crayford, Greenhithe, Bexleyheath, Erith, Swanscombe, Stone, Wilmington, and Gravesend.

• 10+ Years’ Experience
  Trusted specialists in modern immobiliser and remote systems, including 2024/2025 models.

• Dealer-Level Equipment
  Advanced diagnostics, OBD2 tools, and EEPROM capabilities to code keys and resolve complex keyless entry issues on-site.

• All Makes and Models
  From Ford and VW to BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda, Land Rover, Volvo, Jaguar, Mini, and more.

• Insured and DBS-Checked Technicians
  Fully vetted team with public liability insurance for your reassurance.

• Non-Destructive Entry
  We prioritise non-destructive techniques to protect your vehicle. Exceptions are rare and always discussed first.

• Warranties and Guarantees
  Workmanship and new keys/fobs are covered by clear warranties. We stand behind every fix and replacement.

• Faster and More Convenient Than a Dealer
  No towing or long waits—our mobile service comes to your home, workplace, or roadside in the DA area.

If diagnostics show your fob needs full programming or replacement, head over to our dedicated Car Key Programming page or ask us for a free, no-obligation quote.

Our Step-by-Step Service

1. Call or Message Us
   Tell us the make, model, year, and what the fob is doing (or not doing). Photos help if the fob is damaged.

2. We Come to You
   A fully equipped mobile unit arrives at your location in Dartford or anywhere in the DA postcode region.

3. Diagnose and Advise
   We identify the fault and explain your options—repair, re-sync, or replacement—with clear costs before work.

4. Fix, Program, and Test
   We complete repairs or programme a new fob/remote, then test door locks, boot release, and starting to ensure everything works perfectly.

5. Handover and Warranty
   You’ll receive your working fob(s), usage tips, and warranty details. We can also cut and programme a spare on the spot if you wish.

Preventing Future Key Fob Problems

• Replace fob batteries proactively every 12–18 months
• Keep the fob dry; avoid leaving it in damp pockets or cupholders
• Don’t press buttons through pockets—this wears out switches
• Avoid heavy keyrings that strain flip key hinges and ignition barrels
• If your car battery dies, your fob may need re-synchronising—call us if it won’t respond afterwards
• Consider a spare key to avoid emergencies and save on urgent call-outs. See car key replacement in Dartford

Related Services and Local Coverage

Many “key fob not working” issues come alongside lock or ignition faults. If your key won’t turn or the car refuses to start, we also offer:

• Vehicle unlocking in Dartford for locked keys in car situations
• Car key programming for transponder and smart keys
• Car key replacement in Dartford if your fob is beyond repair

We cover all DA postcodes and neighbourhoods across Dartford, Bexley, Erith, Greenhithe, Swanscombe, Crayford, Bexleyheath, Sidcup, Northfleet, Gravesend, Longfield, and surrounding areas.

FAQs

Why has my key fob suddenly stopped working?

Common causes include a dead battery, worn buttons, water damage, desynchronisation with the vehicle, or a transponder/immobiliser issue. We can test the fob signal, check the immobiliser, and reprogramme or repair as needed on-site.

Can you fix a key fob that got wet?

Often, yes—if we act quickly. We open the fob, dry and clean the PCB, replace any corroded switches, and fit a new battery and seals. If the chip is irreparably damaged, we can supply and programme a replacement fob.

My car says “Key Not Detected.” What should I do?

Try a fresh battery first. If that fails, hold the fob near the start button or emergency start location (varies by brand). If it still won’t start, the transponder may need programming or the fob may be faulty. We provide on-site diagnosis and reprogramming.

Can you reprogramme a used key fob?

Sometimes. Many modern vehicles lock a fob to the first car they’re coded to. We can advise by make/model; for some cars, used fobs can be reset with EEPROM/immobiliser programming, while others require a new fob.

How long does key fob programming take?

Simple remote programming can take 20–40 minutes. Smart key and immobiliser coding generally take 30–90 minutes depending on the vehicle and security system.

Will you damage my car while unlocking or programming?

No—our approach is non-destructive wherever possible. If an invasive method is required due to severe faults, we’ll explain why and seek your approval first.

Is this cheaper than going to a main dealer?

In most cases, yes—especially when factoring in towing, wait times, and labour. Our mobile service provides quick, dealer-level solutions at your location. For price guidance, see auto locksmith prices in Dartford.

Next Steps

If your car key fob is not working, we’ll get you sorted quickly—repairing, reprogramming, or replacing the fob on your driveway or at the roadside. We’re local to Dartford and cover the entire DA postcode area with fully equipped mobile units, public liability insurance, and DBS-checked technicians.

• Need urgent entry first? See our car unlock service in Dartford.
• Want to add a spare to avoid future issues? Visit car key replacement Dartford.
• Unsure which service you need? Explore our auto locksmith services in Dartford or contact our Dartford team.

Need help now? Call 01322 936 972 or Email us.

Helpful links

• Car key programming
• Car key replacement Dartford
• Car unlock service Dartford
• Contact our Dartford team