Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could appear to be an incidental item, if it stops working properly you could be in a tricky spot. It can be expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the most effective solution.
You can save money by going to other places before you go to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is batteries that are dead. It can be a shock and especially if it happens just as you're leaving to work or at a social event. Even if you have a backup plan in place like an extra key or phone number to call roadside assistance, you will likely require the fob to be repaired or replaced. It's a good idea to know that most car keyfob battery issues can be fixed easily with the right tools.
Many modern cars come with an emergency backup system to protect the possibility that a fob's battery may fail. Usually, if you hold the dead fob to the ignition button and press it, you will be able to start the vehicle. If you have a push-to-start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your vehicle will give you detailed instructions on how you can use the key fob.
Other reasons for keys not responding to button presses or turning on include a button which isn't pressed all the way or is a battery with a low capacity or a remote which needs to be programmed. In some cases cleaning your key fob may be enough to make it work again. As key fob buttons get repeatedly pressed, dirt could build up and stop them from being pressed all the way.
You can use the end of a clip clean your key fob. You can use this to open the case securely and take out the old battery. It is also advisable to keep an extra battery handy, as well as any tool you might need to open up the case of your key fob. This way, you'll be ready for a problem with your key fob to ensure that it won't disrupt your routine and cause you to have need to call for roadside assistance. Alternatively, you can keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get caught off guard by a key fob issue.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob transmit signals to the circuit board of the remote when they're hit. If these buttons wear out, the signals may not be sent and your fob will stop working. This could happen over time or may be due to an issue with your car or fob. If the button is worn out it is possible to replace it or repair it.
Key fobs are frequently subjected to a lot abuse. They're thrown around, smashed, and exposed to cold and heat on a regular basis. They're also very fragile and can easily be broken. car remote key repair of the key fob is filled with components like a circuitboard and battery contacts which can be destroyed if you abuse it enough.
Changing the battery in your key fob is typically enough to solve most issues, but some issues are more complicated than that. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob using a screwdriver and determining whether it's dirty or requires replacement. The most commonly used batteries in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought in nearly any store.
Even a small amount can damage the fob. This can be a concern when you accidentally wash your key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could damage the chip and prevent the key fob from working.
If you're experiencing a problem with a button, your best option is to contact an expert locksmith. They will be able to fix or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They also can fix other electrical issues, such as a broken horn or lights that won't turn on.
Automobiles are costly, so it's important to keep up with the technology and equipment that make them run. If you don't do this then your vehicle will not function effectively and you'll have a much more difficult in getting to where want to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also pose a risk to safety and can lead to serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've tried to start your car and the fob isn't functioning it could be a sign that your battery terminals are broken. The fob must be capable of communicating with the vehicle's central system to unlock and start it. This communication is accomplished via a small transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to an internal key (if it is present) that opens the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is designed to transmit this signal up 50 feet, however the transmission may not work in the event that the battery terminals are damaged.
These are easy fixes. The process of replacing the battery is usually straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out which type of replacement batteries are required and then visiting an auto parts retailer or online store to find the correct batteries. It can be difficult to open some key fobs to get to the batteries. Be cautious not to break any item.
Then, try the key fob once more. If the key fob doesn't work the key that is in the fob may be damaged or the key could have been changed in programming. Modern keys need to be programmed in order to work with a specific vehicle, and certain error codes can 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 another possibility, especially if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could have failed due to the fact that the key fob had been exposed to excessive heat or other issues. Sometimes, this is because of work being done on your vehicle that exposed wires, which could cause other malfunctions such as a broken horn or a malfunctioning fob. Examine your key fob and replace or repair it if needed. Not having a working key can be stressful and dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are an excellent convenience to have, but they can cause issues that require professional repair. Fortunately, the majority of problems that could be afflict a car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to repair. Here are a few of the most common problems with their potential solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. The batteries for fobs must be replaced every three to four years, and they can cease working if they become too old. This is a simple problem to fix - just buy a replacement battery and install.
A damaged receiver
To start and open your car the transmitter on your keyfob has to receive a signal from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not get through and will remain inaccessible. This is a straightforward problem to identify, but it may be necessary to replace the entire receiver if damaged.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require an extra chip inside the key fob to allow for start. This chip communicates with the car using a unique code that only the manufacturer can understand. In most cases, a replacement key fob must be programmed by the dealer. You can find aftermarket fobs that work with a variety of vehicles.
Not working
If you have tried replacing the battery and buttons but your car key fob doesn't work it could be an electrical issue or other type of issue that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith will be able to look for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back to working order quickly. This service will normally be cheaper than a trip the dealership. The cost of a new fob depends on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you choose to use locally. You can contact a few companies in your area to find out the price before committing to the job.