Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could appear to be an afterthought, if it stops functioning properly, you could be in a difficult spot. While replacing it with a brand new one can be costly but sometimes it's the most cost-effective option.
However, before you go to the dealer to get one reprogramed There are other places to save money.
Dead Battery
A dead battery on a key fob is among the most frequent issues with key fobs. It can be a surprise to people, especially when it happens as you are leaving for work or heading out to a social gathering. You may have a back-up plan, like an extra key or a number for help at the roadside however, you will require a fix or replacement for the fob. It's important to know that most car keyfob battery problems can be easily fixed with the right information.
A lot of modern cars have a backup system that accounts for the possibility of a fob battery going bad. Usually when you hold the dead fob to the ignition button, you'll be able start the vehicle. If you have a vehicle with push-to-start technology it will also open your doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will give you detailed instructions on how you can use the key fob.
Other reasons for the key fob to not respond to button presses or turning on could be a button which isn't completely pressed or is a battery with a low capacity or a remote that requires programming. In some instances, a simple cleaning may suffice to make your key fob work again. Since key fob buttons are pressed repeatedly, dirt can build up and stop them from being pressed all the way.
You can use the clip's end of a clip clean your key fob. This is a safe method to open the case and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any other tools you might need to remove the key fob's case at hand. You can prepare for any issues with your keyfob well in advance, so that you do not have to be worried about it ruining your day or having to call roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra key in your purse so that you don't get caught off guard by a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob transmit signals to the circuit board on the remote when they are press. If the buttons wear out, signals won't be sent. The fob could stop working. This could happen over time, or it could be a result of some other issue related to the fob or vehicle. If the button has worn out or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs are often subjected to a lot abuse. Every day, they're broken, dropped and exposed to cold and hot. They're also extremely fragile and can easily be broken. The inside of the key fob is filled with components like a circuit board and battery contacts that can be destroyed if you abuse it in a way that is excessively.
Change the battery inside your key fob will usually be enough to fix most problems however, some issues are more complicated than those. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the fob case and determine whether it is required to be cleaned or replaced. The most commonly used batteries in key fobs are 3V button batteries, which can be purchased in almost any retailer.
Even a small amount of force can harm the fob. This can be a concern when you wash the key fob or go swimming with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip and prevent the key fob from working.
If you're having a button issue the best solution is to call a professional locksmith. 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 horn that won't work.
Cars are expensive, therefore it's important to keep up to date with the latest technology and equipment that makes them run. When you don't, your vehicle won't function as it should and it will be harder to get to where you're required to be. A malfunctioning technology or equipment can also be a security issue and can result in serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you have been trying to start your car, but the fob isn't functioning this could be an indication that the battery terminals are damaged. The fob must be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock and start it. This communication is made by a small transmitter located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent through the fob to the internal key (if it is present), which unlocks the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is designed to be able to send this signal up to 50 feet, but the transmission might not function when the battery terminals are damaged.
Fortunately, these are simple fixes. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply take out the old one, determine what type of batteries you need, and then go to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the appropriate ones. Some key fobs are difficult to open to get access to the batteries however, and it pays to be cautious so that you don't break any of the components inside.
Next, try the key fob again. If the key fob still does not work the key that is in the fob may be damaged or the key may be reprogrammed. Modern keys need to be programmed to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes may corrupt the programming in the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key to the vehicle.
A damaged fob is another possibility, particularly if fob was placed in a container or left out in the rain. The circuit board may have failed because the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or other issues. This could happen when you have work done to your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could cause other malfunctions like a broken key fob or a broken horn. Examine your key fob and replace or repair it if needed. The absence of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs can be an excellent convenience, however they can also cause problems that require professional assistance. Many of the problems that may be a problem for a car keyfob are simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are a few of the most frequent problems and solutions for them:
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter lifespan than most 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 straightforward issue to fix - simply purchase the replacement battery and install.
A damaged receiver
The transmitter inside your key fob has to receive signals from the receiver in your vehicle to allow it to be opened and started. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't be able to pass through and will remain unreadable. This is a straightforward issue to diagnose, but it may be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's too damaged.
Not programmed
Some modern cars need a special chip in the key fob to allow for start. The chip communicates with the car via a unique code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In the majority of cases, you have to go to the dealer to purchase a replacement fob that is programmed correctly for your car. However, you can sometimes find fobs from the aftermarket that work with a variety of vehicles.
Not working
If you've tried to replace the batteries and buttons but your car key fob does not work it could be due to an electrical issue or other type of issue that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith can quickly solve the issue by looking for the issue. This is usually less expensive than going to a dealer. car remote key repair of replacing a fob will vary depending on the model of your car and your local locksmith. You can get an estimate of the cost by speaking with several local businesses prior to scheduling a job.