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 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 get one reprogramed, there are several other places you can go to save money.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can be a surprise to people, especially when it happens while you're leaving to work or going to a social event. You might have a backup plan, such as an additional key or a number for assistance at the roadside but you'll still need to fix or replace the fob. The good news is that the majority of car key fob battery problems are easily fixable with the right tools.
A majority of modern vehicles have a backup system in place that allows for the possibility of the fob battery failing. If you connect an uncharged fob to the ignition, you are able to generally start the vehicle. If you own a car that has push-to-start and you want to unlock your doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will provide specific instructions on how to use the key fob.
Other reasons for a key fob that doesn't respond or turn on to button presses could be a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote controller that requires reprogramming. In some instances cleaning your key fob may be enough to get it working again. Since key fob buttons are often repeatedly pressed the dirt may build up and prevent them from pressing completely.
You can use the end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. You can use it to safely open the case and remove the battery. It is also advisable to keep an extra battery handy along with any tool you'll need to open up the case for your key fob. This way, you can be prepared in case of a problem with your key fob to ensure that it doesn't disrupt your day or result in having to call for roadside assistance. Keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid being surprised if you have an issue with your key fob.
Button Issues
When pressed on remote controls send signals to its circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals might not be sent. The device may stop working. This could happen over time, or it could be a result of an issue with the fob or car. If the button has worn out it is possible to replace it or repair it.
Key fobs are frequently subjected to a lot of abuse. Every day, they are broken, dropped, and exposed both to cold and heat. They're also extremely fragile and can easily be damaged. The inside of the fob has parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that could be destroyed with enough abuse.
Change the battery inside your key fob is typically enough to solve most issues however, certain issues are more complex than those. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob using a screwdriver and determining whether it is dirty or needs to replaced. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be purchased in almost any retailer.
Even a small amount can cause damage to the fob. This could be a concern if you go swimming with the key fob in your pocket, or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This can damage the transponder chip within and cause the key fob to cease working.
If you're having a problem with a button the best solution is to speak with an expert locksmith. They can repair or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical problems, like an unresponsive light or a Horn that isn't working.
It is essential to keep up-to-date with the most recent technology and tools for your vehicle. Cars can be costly. 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 would like to go. It's also a major security risk to have defective equipment and technology since it could cause more serious mechanical problems later on.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob isn't working when you try to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals have failed. The fob has to be able to communicate with the vehicle's central system to unlock and start it. This is accomplished through a small radio transmitter within the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) and it unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob can send the signal up to 50 feet away. However, if the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not work.
These are simple solutions. Replacing the battery is typically straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out which type of replacement batteries are required and then visiting an auto parts store or online retailer for the proper batteries. It may be difficult to open some key fobs in order to access the batteries. Be careful not to break any item.
The next step is to test the key fob once more. If it doesn't work it could be because the key's metal part inside the fob has been damaged or that the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys must be programmed in order to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes can cause a problem with the programming on the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who will reprogram the key to the car.
Another possibility is that the fob is damaged, particularly when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could be damaged because the key fob was exposed to heat excessively, or other problems. This could happen when you are working on your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other malfunctions like a broken key fob or broken horn. Examine your key fob and replace or repair it if needed. The absence of a functioning key can be stressful and dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience, but they can also cause problems that need professional repair. Thankfully, many of the problems that could be afflict a car key fob are relatively simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are some of the most frequent problems and their possible solutions:
A dead battery
Most basic remotes can last a long time before requiring a new battery, but the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries are typically required to be replaced every three or four years, and they are prone to fail when they're too old. Read the Full Article is a straightforward issue to fix - just buy the replacement battery and install.
Damaged receiver
The transmitter inside your key fob must receive an input from the receiver in your vehicle to be able to open and begin. If this receiver is damaged, signals will be unable to pass through, and remain inaccessible. This is an easy issue to diagnose however, it could be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's damaged.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob to allow it to start. The chip communicates to the car via a unique code that is only recognized by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, a replacement fob has to be programmed by the dealer. You can find aftermarket fobs that are compatible with a variety of vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob will not function after you've replaced the battery and buttons, it could be due to an electrical problem or another problem that requires a professional fix. A professional locksmith will be able to look for this type of problem and fix your key fob back in good working order in a short time. This service is usually less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a new fob will depend on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith in your area. You can contact a few companies in your area to find out the cost prior to booking a job.