Car Key Fob Repair Service
If your car key fob stops working it could put you in a difficult situation. While replacing it with a brand new key fob can be expensive and time-consuming, it's sometimes the best option.
You can save money by visiting other places before you go to the dealer.
Dead Battery
A dead battery for a fob is one of the most frequent issues with key fobs. It can make people feel a bit uneasy, especially when it happens as you are leaving for work or heading out to a social event. Although you may have an emergency plan, such as a spare key or a phone number to call roadside assistance, you will likely require the fob to be repaired or replaced. It's good to know that most car keyfob battery problems are easily fixable with the right tools.
A majority of modern vehicles come with a backup system that allows for the possibility of a fob battery going bad. If you attach a dead fob in the ignition, you are able to typically start the vehicle. If you have a vehicle that has push-to-start, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will provide specific instructions on how to use the key fob.
Other reasons why a key fob not responding to button presses or turning off include buttons that aren't fully pressed or a battery that isn't fully charged, or a remote that needs to be programmed. In some cases, cleaning your key fob might be enough to get it working again. As key fob buttons get pressed repeatedly, dirt can build up and stop them from being pressed all the way.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to make use of the end of the paper clip. It is safe to open the case and remove the old battery. Keep an extra battery and any tools you may require to open the case of your key fob in your possession. You can prepare for issues with your keyfob in advance, so you don't have to worry about it affecting your day or calling roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep an extra key in your purse so that you don't get caught off guard by a key fob issue.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob send signals to the circuit board on the remote when they're pressed. If the buttons become worn out, signals may not be sent. Your fob may cease to function. This could occur over time, or could be due to some other issue related to the fob or vehicle. If the button is worn, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs are often subject to a lot of abuse. Everyday, they're dropped, banged, and exposed both to cold and heat. They're also very delicate and are easily broken. The inside of the key fob is filled with components such as a circuitboard and battery contacts which can be destroyed if you use it in a way that is excessively.
Change the battery inside your key fob is typically enough to solve most issues however, some issues are more complicated than those. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob using an screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or needs to replaced. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells, which are available in almost any retailer.
Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just one drop of water. This could be a problem if you go swimming with the key fob in your pocket, or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This can cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob to stop functioning.
A professional locksmith is your best option if you're having a problem with buttons. They can repair or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical issues, such as an unresponsive light or a horn that won't work.
It's essential to keep up with the latest technologies and equipment for your car. Cars can be expensive. If you don't do this the vehicle won't work properly and you will encounter a more difficult getting to where you would like to go. A malfunctioning technology or equipment can also pose a risk to safety in that it could lead to serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob doesn't work when you attempt to start your car, it could be that the battery terminals have failed. To unlock and start the car, the fob has to be able to communicate with central system of your vehicle. This communication is accomplished by a small transmitter located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted to the internal car key (if there is one) which then unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob can transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away, however should the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission may not work.
Fortunately, they are easy solutions. It is generally easy to replace the battery. Simply take out the old one, figure out the kind of batteries you require, and visit an auto parts shop or online retailer to purchase the appropriate ones. Some key fobs are hard to open to get access to the batteries however, and it pays to be cautious to ensure that you don't break anything inside.
The next step is to try the key fob a second time. If the key fob still doesn't work the key that is in the fob may be damaged or the key may 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. repair car key can reprogramme the key to the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, especially when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board might have failed because the key fob had been exposed to extreme heat, or other problems. Sometimes this is the result of work being done on your vehicle that exposed wires. This could lead to further issues, such as a damaged horn or a malfunctioning key fob. It is important to check your key fob for damage and repair or replace it if necessary, since the absence of a functioning key could be extremely stressful and risky.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are a great convenience however, they can cause issues that require professional repair. Many of the problems that could cause problems with a car keyfob can be easy and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems and their possible solutions:
A dead battery
The most basic remotes can last for a long period before they require replacement batteries, however the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries usually need to be replaced every three or four years, and will cease to function when they are too old. Luckily, this is an easy solution - just purchase a replacement battery and install it.
A damaged receiver
To open and start your car the transmitter inside your keyfob needs to receive a message from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through and will remain unreadable. This is an easy issue to diagnose but if the receiver is too damaged, it may be necessary for you to replace it.
Not programmed
Some modern cars need an extra chip inside the key fob to start. This chip communicates with the car through a code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In the majority of cases, you have to visit the dealership to get a replacement fob that is properly programmed for your vehicle. However, key fob repairs can sometimes locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that work with a variety of automobiles.
Not working
If you've tried replacing the batteries and buttons but your car key fob still doesn't work it could be an electrical issue or other kind of problem that requires professional attention. A locksmith professional will be able to check for this type of issue and get your key fob back to good working order in a short time. This is usually less expensive than going to the dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will differ based on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can contact a few companies in your area to know the price before committing to the job.