Car Key Fob Repair Service
If your car key fob isn't working, you could be in a bind. It's expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the most effective solution.
However, before you go to the dealer to have one re-evaluated, there are several other locations that can save you money.
Dead Battery
A dead battery on a key fob is one of the most frequent issues with key fobs. It can catch people off guard and can be a real shock, particularly as you are leaving for work or heading out to a social event. You may have a back-up plan, like an additional key or a number for help 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 knowledge.
Many modern cars come with backup systems to deal with the possibility that a fob's battery might fail. Usually when you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button, you'll be able start the vehicle. If you own a car that uses push-to-start, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's manual of your car will provide specific information on where to put the key fob to start it.
Other causes for a key fob that won't be able to turn on or respond to the button presses include a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote controller that needs to be reprogrammed. In some cases cleaning the device may be all it takes to make your key fob work again. Because key fob buttons are typically repeatedly pressed the dirt may build up and prevent them from pressing to the fullest extent.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch can be to use the tip of the paper clip. You can use this to safely open the case and take out the old battery. It is also advisable to keep an extra battery handy along with any other tools you may require to open the case for your key fob. This way, you'll be prepared in case of any issue with your key fob, so that it won't disrupt your routine and cause you to to call for roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid being caught off guard in the event of a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
When they are pressed, the buttons on a remote control transmit signals to its circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals may not be sent. The device may stop working. This can happen over time or may be due to another issue with the car or fob. A professional will be able to repair or replace the button if it's worn out.
Key fobs are often subjected to a lot of abuse. Every day, they are dropped, banged, and exposed both to cold and hot. They're also pretty delicate and are easily broken. The inside of the fob has parts like a circuit board and battery contacts that could be destroyed if abused enough.
Most issues can be fixed by replacing the battery in your fob, however there are some that require more. The battery can be inspected by opening the case of the key fob with an screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or needs to replaced. The majority of key fobs utilize 3V button cells, which are readily available in every store.
Even a small amount can damage 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 could cause damage to the chip and stop the key fob from working.
If you're experiencing a problem with a button the best choice is to speak with a professional locksmith. They are usually able to fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical problems like the broken light or 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. If you don't then your vehicle will not function properly and you will have a much more difficult getting to where you need to go. It's also a big safety issue to have faulty equipment and technology since it can cause more serious mechanical problems later on.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've been trying to start your car, but the fob hasn't been working this could be a sign that your battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start the vehicle, the fob needs to be able communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This communication is accomplished via a small transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) and it opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is able to send the signal up to 50 feet away, but should the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission may not work.
These are simple solutions. Replacing the battery is generally as easy as removing the old battery, figuring out which replacement batteries are needed, and visiting an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct batteries. Some key fobs are hard to open to access the batteries however, and it is important to be cautious to ensure that you don't damage any of the components inside.
Then, test the key fob once more. If it doesn't work, it is possible that the key made of metal inside the fob is damaged or the key has been programmed. Modern keys must be programmed in order to function with a particular vehicle and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogram the key to the vehicle.
A damaged fob is a second possibility, particularly if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or had other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. This can happen when you work on your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other issues, such as a damaged key fob or a broken horn. It is important to check the key fob for damage and replace or repair it if necessary, as the absence of a functioning key can be very stressful and dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have however, they can also cause issues that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the issues that can plague a car key fob are relatively easy and cheap to solve. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues and their possible solutions:
A dead battery
The 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. The batteries for fobs must be changed every three to four years, and they can cease working if they are too old. Luckily, this is an easy problem to solve - simply purchase a replacement battery and put it in.
Damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob must receive an input from the vehicle's receiver to allow it to allow it to be opened and started. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't get through and will remain unreadable. car key repair is a simple issue to diagnose however it may be necessary to replace the entire receiver if damaged to the point of being unusable.
Not programmed
Some modern cars require a special chip inside the key fob for it to start. The chip communicates to the car with a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, a replacement key fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. There are aftermarket fobs that are compatible with a variety of vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob does not function after you've replaced the battery and buttons it could be due to an electrical problem or another type of issue that requires professional repair. A locksmith professional will be able to check for this type of problem and fix your key fob back to working order quickly. This service is usually cheaper than a trip the dealership. The cost of a new fob will depend on your car model and the local locksmith. Contact a few locksmiths in your area to get an idea of the cost before booking the job.