Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could seem like an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could end up in a difficult spot. While replacing it with a new one is costly but sometimes it's the most effective alternative.
You can save money by going to other locations prior to going to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most common problems with key fobs is batteries that are dead. It can make people feel a bit uneasy, especially when it happens while you're leaving for work or heading out to a social event. Even if you have an alternative plan in place like a spare key or a phone number to call roadside assistance it is likely that you will require getting the fob repaired or replaced. It's important to know that the majority of battery issues for car keys are easily fixable with the right information.
Many modern cars come with an emergency backup system to protect the possibility that the fob's battery might fail. If you attach a dead fob to the ignition, you can generally start the car. If you have a push-to-start vehicle, this will unlock the doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will give you detailed instructions on how you can use the key fob.
Other causes for a key fob not responding to press buttons or turning on could be the button that isn't being fully pressed, a low-capacity battery or a remote that needs to be programmed. In some instances cleaning your key fob could be enough to get it working again. Because key fob buttons are frequently pressed over and over again dirt can build up and prevent them from pressing down all the way.
A quick method to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to make use of the end of the paper clip. This can safely be used to open the case and remove the battery. You should also keep an additional battery in your bag and any other tools you may need to open up the key fob case. This way, you'll be prepared in case of any issue with your key fob to ensure that it won't disrupt your day or result in having need to call for roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare key in your purse so that you aren't surprised by a key fob issue.
Button Issues
When pressed on the remote control send signals to the circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals won't be sent. The fob could stop working. This can happen over time or be caused by an issue with your car or fob. If the button is worn, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs typically see lots of abuse. They're dropped, banged around, and exposed to cold and hot on a regular basis. They're also very fragile and could easily be damaged. The inside of the key fob is filled with components like a circuitboard and battery contacts which can be destroyed if you abuse it enough.
Change the battery inside your key fob is typically enough to resolve most issues, but some issues are more complicated than the others. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the case of your key fob and see if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries, which can be purchased in almost any retailer.
Even a small amount can damage the fob. This could be a problem in the event that you swim with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This can damage the chip and prevent the key fob from functioning.
Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if you're having issues with buttons. They can usually repair or replace the button and reprogramme it for you. key fob repairs can also solve other electrical problems like the broken light or Horn that isn't working.
Automobiles are costly, so it's important to keep up to date with the latest technology and equipment that make them run. If you don't do this then your vehicle will not function effectively and you'll be having a harder getting to where you need to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also be a safety issue, as it can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've been trying to start your car, but the fob hasn't been working, this may be a sign that your battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start the vehicle, the fob needs to be able communicate with the central system of your vehicle. The communication happens via a tiny radio transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to an internal key (if it exists), which unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to transmit this signal at distances of up 50 feet, however the transmission might not function when the battery terminals are broken.
Fortunately, they are easy fixes. Replacing the battery is typically as simple as removing the old battery, figuring out which replacement batteries are required, and going to an auto parts store or online retailer for the proper ones. Some key fobs are difficult to open in order to get access to the batteries however, and it is important to be careful so that you don't break any of the components inside.
The next step is to try the key fob a second time. If it's still not working, it is possible that the key's metal part inside the fob is damaged or the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys must be programmed to work with specific vehicles, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogram the key to the vehicle.
A damaged fob is another possibility, particularly if the fob was dropped or left out in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was subjected to extreme heat or other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. This could happen if you work on your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other problems, like a damaged key fob or broken horn. It is essential to examine your key fob for damages and repair or replace it if necessary, since the absence of a functioning key could be extremely stressful and potentially dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs can be extremely convenient, but they can also cause problems that require professional repair. Fortunately, the majority of problems that could be afflict keys for cars are fairly simple and cost-effective to fix. Here are a few of the most frequent problems, and solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter lifespan than most basic remotes. Fob batteries are typically required to be replaced every three or four years, and they are prone to fail when they are too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix. Just purchase an alternative battery and then install it.
Damaged receiver
To open and start your vehicle the transmitter on your keyfob needs to receive a signal from the receiver in your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't get through and will remain unreadable. This is a straightforward issue to diagnose however, if the receiver is too damaged, it may be necessary to replace it.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob for it to start. This chip communicates with the car through a code that only the manufacturer knows. In the majority of instances, a replacement key fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. However, you can sometimes find fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with all vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob will not function after you've replaced the battery and buttons it could be due to an electrical problem or another type of issue that requires professional repair. A locksmith professional will be able to check for this type of issue and get your key fob back in good working order in a short time. This is usually less expensive than visiting a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will differ based on the model of your car and your local locksmith. You can get a rough idea of the costs by checking with some local businesses prior to scheduling a job.