Car Key Fob Repair Service
If your car's key fob stops working you may be in a difficult situation. While replacing it with a new one is costly but sometimes it's the most cost-effective option.
However, before you go to the dealer to get one reprogramed, there are several other locations to save money.
Dead Battery
A dead battery for a fob is among the most common issues with key fobs. This can be a surprise and especially if it happens right before you leave for work or attending a social gathering. Although you may have a backup plan in place, such as an extra key or phone number for assistance on the road, you will likely require the fob to be fixed or replaced. It's important to know that most car keyfob battery issues can be fixed easily with the right tools.
Many modern cars come with a backup system to cover the possibility that the fob's battery might fail. If you attach an uncharged fob to the ignition, you will generally start the car. If you have a push-to start vehicle, this will unlock the doors. The owner's guide for your car will contain detailed instructions on where to put the key fob to start it.
Other reasons why a key fob not responding to press buttons or turning on could be buttons that aren't completely pressed, a low-capacity battery or a remote that requires programming. In some instances, 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 block them from being pressed all the way.
You can use the clip's end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. You can use this to safely open the case and remove your old battery. You should also consider keeping an additional battery on hand, as well as any tool you might need to open up the case for your key fob. You can plan for any issues with your keyfob in advance, so you don't have to worry about it affecting your life or needing to call roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare car key in your pocket to avoid getting taken by surprise in the event of a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob send signals to the remote's circuit board when they are hit. If these buttons wear out, the signals may not be sent and your device will stop working. This can happen over time, or could be a result of some other issue related to the fob or vehicle. A professional can fix or replace the button if it's worn.
Key fobs are often exposed to a lot of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed, and exposed to cold and heat on a daily basis. They're also pretty delicate and easily damaged. The inside of the fob is filled with components like circuit boards and battery contacts, which can be destroyed if abused enough.
Change the battery inside your key fob is typically enough to resolve most issues, but some issues are more complicated than those. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob with the help of a screwdriver to determine if it is dirty or requires replacement. The most commonly used batteries in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries that can be purchased at almost any store.
Even a small amount can harm the fob. This can be a problem when you accidentally wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip, preventing the key fob from functioning.
A professional locksmith is your best bet if you have a problem with buttons. They can fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical failures like a broken horn or lights that aren't turning on.
Automobiles are costly, so it's important to keep up to date with technology and equipment that makes them run. If you don't, your vehicle won't function effectively and you'll be having a harder in getting to where need to go. It's also a risk to be a victim of defective equipment and technology since it can cause more serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob doesn't work when you try to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals have failed. The fob needs to be capable of communicating with the central system of the vehicle to unlock and start it. This is accomplished via a small radio transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one), which in turn opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob can transmit the signal up to 50 feet away, however should the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission might not function.
These are straightforward fixes. Replacing the battery is typically as simple as removing the old battery, finding out what type of replacement batteries are needed and then heading to an auto parts retailer or online store to find the correct one. It may be a challenge to open key fobs in order to access the batteries. Be cautious not to scratch anything.
Then, try the key fob a second time. If the key fob isn't working the key that is in the fob might be damaged or the key might have been changed in programming. Modern keys are programmed to work with specific vehicles, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key for the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, especially when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could have failed because the key fob had been exposed to heat excessively, or other problems. Sometimes, this can be the result of work being done on your car that accidentally exposed wires, which could lead to further problems, like a malfunctioning horn or a malfunctioning key fob. It is crucial to check your key fob for damage and repair or replace it if necessary, as the absence of a functioning key can be extremely stressful and potentially dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are extremely convenient, but they may also cause problems that require professional repair. A lot of the issues that could cause problems with a car keyfob can be simple and affordable to fix. Here are some of the most common problems and car keying repair possible solutions:
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or four years, and can easily stop working when they're old. This is a simple issue to fix. Just purchase the replacement battery and install.
A damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob must receive an input from the receiver in your vehicle in order to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't pass through and remain inaccessible. This is a straightforward problem to identify however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if too damaged.
Not programmed
Some modern cars need a specific chip in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car via a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, a replacement key fob must be programmed by the dealer. You can find aftermarket fobs that are compatible with a wide range of vehicles.
Not working
If you've tried to replace the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still isn't working it could be an electrical issue or other issue that requires professional attention. A locksmith professional will be able to look for this kind of issue and get your key fob back in working order quickly. This service is typically less expensive than going to a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will vary depending on the model of your vehicle and your local locksmith. You can get an idea of the price by speaking with several local businesses prior to booking a job.