Car Key Fob Repair Service
If your car key fob stops working, you could be in a tough spot. While replacing it with a new one can be costly and time-consuming, it's sometimes the best option.
You can save money by visiting other locations prior to going to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can catch people off guard and can be a real shock, particularly when you leave for work or heading out to a social gathering. While you may have a backup plan in place like a spare key or a phone number to call roadside assistance You will probably require getting the fob fixed or replaced. The positive side is that the majority of car key fob battery issues can be fixed with the right knowledge.
Many modern vehicles come with a backup system to cover the possibility that the fob's battery may fail. If you connect a dead fob in the ignition, you will generally start the vehicle. If you own a car with push-to-start technology, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's manual for your car will provide detailed instructions on where to place the fob of the key to start it.
Other causes for keys not responding to press buttons or turning off include buttons that aren't completely pressed, a low-capacity battery or a remote which requires programming. In some instances it is possible that a simple clean could be all that is needed to get your key fob functioning again. When key fob buttons are pressed repeatedly, dirt can build up and block them from being pressed all the way.
You can use the clip's end of a clip to swiftly clean your key fob. It is safe to open the case and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery and any other tools you might require to open the key fob's case at hand. This way, you'll be prepared in case of an issue with your key fob so that it doesn't interrupt your routine and result in having need to call for roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep an extra key in your purse so that you aren't caught off guard by a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob send signals to the remote's circuit board when they're hit. If these buttons wear out, signals may not be transmitted and your device will stop functioning. This could happen over time or may be due to another issue with the car or fob. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's worn out.
Key fobs are often subject to a lot of abuse. Every day, they are damaged, thrown around and exposed to cold and hot. They're also very fragile and can easily be damaged. The inside of the fob contains components like a circuit board and battery contacts that could be destroyed if abused enough.
Changing the battery in your key fob is usually enough to resolve most issues however certain issues are more complex than that. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the fob case and determine if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. The most commonly used batteries in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought in almost any retailer.
Even a tiny amount of water can cause damage to the fob. This could be a concern in the event that you swim with the key fob in your pocket, or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This could cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob to cease working.
Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if you're having an issue with a button. They can usually repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also address other electrical issues, such as a broken light or a Horn that isn't working.
It's important to stay up-to-date with the most recent technology and equipment for your car. Cars can be expensive. If you don't, your vehicle won't function properly and you will have a much more difficult getting to where you need to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also be a security issue in that it could lead to serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob isn't working when you try to start your car it could be because the battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start the car, the fob has to be able to communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This is accomplished via a tiny radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted by the fob to the internal key (if it is present), which unlocks the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is designed to transmit this signal at distances of up 50 feet, however the transmission may not function in the event that the battery terminals are broken.
Fortunately, these are simple solutions. The process of replacing the battery is usually as simple as removing the old battery, figuring out what type of replacement batteries are needed and then visiting an auto parts retailer or online store to find the proper one. It can be a challenge to open key fobs to access the batteries. Be careful not to damage anything.
The next step is to try the key fob again. If the key fob still doesn't work, the metal key inside the fob could be damaged or the key could be changed in programming. Modern keys have to be programmed to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes can cause a problem with the programming on the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key for the vehicle.
A damaged fob is another possibility, especially if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could have failed because the key fob was exposed to heat excessively or other issues. Sometimes, this can be the result of having work done on your car that accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to further malfunctions such as a broken horn or malfunctioning key fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace it or repair it if needed. The absence of a functioning key can be stressful and dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are an excellent convenience but they also cause issues that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the issues that can affect a car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to solve. Here are some of the most frequent problems and their potential solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life-span than standard remotes. Fob batteries are typically required to be replaced every three or four years, and are prone to fail when they are too old. Luckily, this is an easy problem to solve - simply buy a new replacement battery and then install it.
Damaged receiver
To open and start your vehicle the transmitter inside your keyfob has to receive a signal from the receiver in your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't pass through and remain inaccessible. This is a simple problem to identify however it may be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's damaged to the point of being unusable.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a special chip in the key fob to allow for start. The chip communicates to the car via a unique code that is only recognized by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, a replacement fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. However, you may find aftermarket fobs online that work with a variety of vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob does not work after having replaced the battery and the buttons, it could be due to an electrical issue or another issue that requires professional repair. A professional locksmith will be able to check for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back in good working order in a short time. This service is usually cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob can vary based on the model of your car and the locksmith you have chosen to use. car key fob repair near me can get a good idea of the costs by contacting some local businesses prior to scheduling a job.