Car Key Fob Repair Service
While the car key fob might appear to be an afterthought, if it stops functioning properly, you could be in a difficult spot. It's expensive to replace it, but in some cases it's the most effective solution.
But before you head to the dealer to have one re-evaluated, there are several other places you can go that can save you money.
Dead Battery
A dead battery on a key fob is one of the most common issues with key fobs. It can be a shock, especially if it happens just as you're leaving for work or a social gathering. You might have a backup plan, such as an additional key or a number for roadside help however, you will need to fix or replace the fob. The positive side is that the majority of car key fob battery issues are easily fixable with the right knowledge.
A lot of modern cars have an emergency backup system to protect the possibility that a fob's battery might fail. Usually it is the case that if you hold the dead fob to the ignition button you'll be able to start the vehicle. If you own a vehicle that uses push-to-start it will also open your doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will provide specific instructions on how to use the key fob.
Other reasons why keys not responding to button presses or turning on include a button which isn't completely pressed, a low-capacity battery or a remote that requires programming. In some cases, cleaning your key fob could be enough to get it functioning again. When car key repairs near me are repeatedly pressed, dirt may accumulate and prevent them from being pressed all the way.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch could be to make use of the end of a paper clip. This is a safe method to open the case and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery and any tools you may require to open the case of your key fob on hand. This way, you'll be ready for any issue with your key fob, so that it doesn't disrupt your day or result in having the need to call roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid getting surprised when you encounter a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
When pressed by the buttons on the remote control transmit signals to its circuit board. If these buttons become worn out, the signals might not be sent and your device will stop working. This could happen over time, or could be due to an issue related to the fob or vehicle. If the button has worn out, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs often get quite a bit of abuse. They're dropped, banged around and exposed to cold and hot on a daily basis. They're also very fragile and could easily be damaged. The inside of the fob contains components like circuit boards and battery contacts that could be destroyed with enough abuse.
The battery in your key fob is typically enough to resolve most issues, but some issues are more complicated than the others. You can test the battery using a screwdriver to open the case of the fob and determine whether it's required to be cleaned or replaced. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries that can be bought at almost any store.
Even a small amount can damage 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 working.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best bet if you have issues with buttons. They can repair or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They 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 with the technology and equipment that make them run. If you don't, the vehicle won't function as it should and it will be much harder to get to where you're required to be. A malfunctioning technology or equipment can also be a security issue, as it can 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 have failed. To unlock and start your car, the fob has to be able to communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This is accomplished via a tiny 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 unlocks the doors and begins the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away. However, should the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not work.
These are easy solutions. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, identify the type of battery you need, and then visit an auto parts shop or online retailer to purchase the right one. Certain key fobs are difficult to open to get access to the batteries however, and it pays to be cautious to ensure that you don't damage any of the components inside.
Then, try the key fob a second time. If it's still not working it could be that the key made of metal inside the fob is damaged or that the key has been programmed. Modern keys need to be programmed to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes may affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key for the vehicle.
A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if fob was dropped or left in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or had other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this can be the result of having work done on your vehicle that exposed wires. This could lead to further problems, like a malfunctioning horn or a malfunctioning key fob. Check your key fob and replace it or repair it if required. The absence of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are extremely convenient, but they can also cause problems that require professional assistance. Luckily, many of the problems that could be afflict the car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to repair. Here are a few of the most common problems and solutions for them:
A dead battery
The majority of basic remotes last for a long time before requiring replacement batteries, however the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries need to be replaced every three to four years, and they can cease functioning if they get too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix. Just purchase a replacement battery and install.
Damaged receiver
To start and open your car the transmitter on your keyfob needs to receive a message from the receiver in your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't be able to pass through and remain inaccessible. This is a simple issue to identify, but if the receiver is damaged, it could be necessary to replace it.
Not programmed
Some modern cars need a specific chip in the key fob to start. The chip communicates to the car using a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, you must go to the dealer to purchase a replacement fob that is properly programmed for your vehicle. However, you can sometimes locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that are compatible with most vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob does not function after you've replaced the battery and buttons, it could be due to an electrical issue or a different problem that requires a professional fix. A professional locksmith can quickly fix this problem by checking for the problem. This service is usually cheaper than going to a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will vary depending on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can get an idea of the price by speaking with a few local companies before scheduling a job.