Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob may seem like an incidental item, if it stops working properly you could find yourself in a difficult spot. While replacing it with a new key fob can be expensive but sometimes it's the most cost-effective option.
You can save money by visiting other locations prior to going to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can make people feel a bit uneasy and is most likely to happen when you leave for work or heading to a social gathering. There may be a backup plan, such as an extra key or number for help at the roadside but you'll still need to fix or replace the fob. The good news is that most car key fob battery problems can be fixed with the right knowledge.
Many modern cars have a backup system that allows for the possibility of a fob battery going bad. Usually, if you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button you will be able to start the vehicle. If you own a vehicle that uses push-to-start, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's guide for your car will provide specific information on where to place the fob that will start it.
Other reasons for a key fob that won't turn on or respond to button press events include a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery with low capacity, or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some cases, a simple cleaning may be all it takes to make your key fob work again. When key fob buttons are repeatedly pressed, dirt may build up and stop them from being pressed all the way.
You can use the end of a clip to swiftly clean your key fob. This can be used to open the case securely and remove your old battery. You should also consider keeping an additional battery in your bag, as well as any tool you'll require to open the case of your key fob. This way, you can be ready for an issue with your key fob, so that it won't disrupt your day or cause you to have the need to call roadside assistance. Keep a spare car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get taken by surprise if you have an issue with your key fob.
Button Issues
When they are pressed, the buttons on remote controls send signals to the circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals may not be transmitted and the fob won't be functioning. This can occur over time, or could be due to another issue related to the fob or vehicle. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's worn.
Key fobs often get a lot of abuse. They're dropped, tossed around and exposed to cold and heat every day. They're also extremely fragile and can easily be damaged. The inside of the fob has parts like a circuit board and battery contacts, which can be destroyed if abused enough.
Changing the battery in your key fob is usually enough to fix most problems however, some issues are more complicated than those. The battery can be inspected by opening the case of the key fob using a screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or needs to replaced. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries, which can be purchased at almost any store.
Even a tiny amount of water can harm the fob. This could be a problem if you go swimming with the key fob in your purse or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This can damage the chip and prevent the key fob from working.
Contacting a professional locksmith is your best bet if you have issues with buttons. They will be able to fix or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical issues, such as a broken light or a sound horn that isn't working.
Cars are expensive, therefore it is essential to keep up with the technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't, your vehicle will not function properly and will be harder to get to where you need to be. It's also a safety issue to have faulty technology and equipment because it could cause more serious mechanical issues down the road.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've tried to start your car, but the fob hasn't been working, this may be a sign that the battery terminals are damaged. The fob has to be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock it and start it. This is accomplished via a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the internal car key (if there is one) which then unlocks the doors and begins the engine. The fob can transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away, but if the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission may not work.
These are easy fixes. Replacing the battery is generally straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out what type of replacement batteries are needed and then going to an auto parts store or online retailer for the proper one. Certain key fobs are difficult to open in order to access the batteries however, it's important to be cautious so that you don't break anything inside.
The next step is to test the key fob a second time. If the key fob still isn't working the key that is in the fob might be damaged or the key might be modified. Modern keys have to be programmed to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes may corrupt the programming in the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who will program the key again to the car.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly in the event that it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could have failed due to the fact that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat, or other problems. This could happen when you are working on your vehicle and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other malfunctions like a broken key fob or broken horn. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if necessary. Not having a working key can be stressful and dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are a great convenience to have but they cause issues that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the problems that could be afflict the car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to solve. Here are car key fob repair near me of most frequent problems, and possible solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter lifespan than most basic remotes. Fob batteries usually need to be replaced every three or four years, and can easily stop working when they're old. Luckily it is a simple problem to solve - simply purchase a replacement battery and install it.
Damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob needs to receive an input from the vehicle's receiver to allow it to be opened and started. If this receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through and remain unreadable. This is a straightforward issue to identify, however, if the receiver is damaged, it could be necessary to replace it.
Not programmed
Certain cars of the present require an extra chip inside the key fob to allow for start. This chip communicates to the car via a unique code that is only recognized by the manufacturer. In most cases, a replacement key fob has to be programmed by the dealer. You can find replacement fobs that can be used with a wide range of vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob will not work after having replaced the battery and the buttons, it could be due to an electrical issue or another type of problem that requires a professional fix. A professional locksmith will be able to check for this type of problem and fix your key fob back to good working order in a short time. This service is usually cheaper than a trip the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob will vary depending on the model of your car as well as the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can contact a few companies in your area to know the cost before booking the job.