Car Key Fob Repair Service
If your car's key fob isn't working you may be in a bind. It's costly to replace it, but in some cases it's the best option.
But before you head to the dealer to get one of your documents redrawn there are a variety of places to save money.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can be a surprise to people and can be a real shock, particularly while you're leaving for work or heading out to a social event. You might have a backup plan, like an additional key or a number for assistance at the roadside, but you will still have to repair or replace the fob. The good news is that most car key fob battery problems can be easily fixed with the right tools.
Many modern cars have a backup system that allows for the possibility of the fob battery failing. Usually when you hold the dead fob to the ignition button you will be able to start the vehicle. If you own a car that uses push-to-start, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will give you detailed instructions on how to use the key fob.
Other reasons for the key fob to not respond to button presses or turning off include a button which isn't completely pressed or is a battery with a low capacity, or a remote that requires programming. In some instances, cleaning your key fob might be enough to get it functioning again. Since key fob buttons are typically repeatedly pressed, dirt can build up and prevent them from pressing down all the way.
You can make use of the end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. This can be used to open the case securely and remove the battery. It is also advisable to keep an additional battery on hand and any tool you'll need to open up the key fob case. You can prepare for any issues with your keyfob in advance, so you do not have to worry about it ruining your day or calling roadside assistance. Keep a spare car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get caught off guard in the event of an issue with your key fob.
Button Issues
When they are pressed by the buttons on the remote control send signals to the circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals won't be sent. The fob could stop working. This can happen over time or be caused by an issue with your car or fob. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's damaged.
Key fobs often get a lot of abuse. Everyday, they're broken, dropped, and exposed both to cold and hot. They're also very delicate and are easily broken. The inside of the key fob contains components like a circuitboard and battery contacts, which could be destroyed if you use it enough.
Changing the battery in your key fob is usually enough to resolve most issues however, some issues are more complicated than those. You can test the battery using a screwdriver in order to open the fob case and determine if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells that can be found in nearly every store.
Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just a small amount of water. This could be a problem when you accidentally wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip and prevent the key fob from working.
A professional locksmith is the best option if you're having issues with a button. They can fix or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical problems, like lighting problems or a horn that won't work.
Automobiles are costly, so it's important to keep up with the technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't the vehicle won't work properly and you will be having a harder getting to where you want to go. how you can help '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 have been trying to start your car, but the fob isn't functioning, this may be a sign that the battery terminals are damaged. The fob needs to be able to communicate with the central system of the vehicle in order to unlock it and start it. This communication is done through a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one), which in turn unlocks the doors and begins the engine. The fob can transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away. However, should the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission may not work.
These are straightforward solutions. It is usually easy to replace the battery. Simply remove the old one, identify the kind of batteries you require, and then head to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct ones. It can be difficult to open some key fobs to access the batteries. Be careful not to break anything.
The next step is to test the key fob again. If it's still not working it could be that the metal key itself inside the fob has been damaged or the key has been programmed. Modern keys need to be programmed in order to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes could corrupt the programming in the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who can program the key again to the car.
A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was subjected to excessive heat or had other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. This can happen when you work on your vehicle and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other issues, such as a damaged key fob or a broken horn. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace it or repair it if required. The absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are an excellent convenience, however they can also cause issues that require professional repair. Many of the issues that can be a problem for a car keyfob are easy and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of the most common problems and possible solutions:
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. Fob batteries usually need to be replaced every three or four years, and will cease to function when they're too old. This is a simple problem to fix. Just purchase the replacement battery and install.
A damaged receiver
To open and start your car, the transmitter in your keyfob has to receive a message from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not get through and will remain unreadable. This is a straightforward issue to determine however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if too damaged.
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 knows. In the majority of instances, a replacement key fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. But, you can locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that are compatible with all vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob will not work after you have replaced the battery and the buttons, it could be due to an electrical problem or another type of issue that requires professional assistance to fix. A professional locksmith will be able to resolve the issue by examining for the problem. This service is usually cheaper than visiting a dealer. The cost of replacing a fob can vary based on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can get an idea of the costs by checking with several local businesses prior to booking a job.