Car Key Fob Repair Service
If your car key fob stops working, you could be in a difficult situation. It's costly 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
A dead battery on a key fob is one of the most frequent issues with key fobs. It can catch people off guard and is most likely to happen as you are leaving for work or heading out to a social gathering. While you may have an emergency plan like an extra key or phone number to call roadside assistance it is likely that you will require getting the fob repaired or replaced. The positive side is that the majority of car key fob battery issues can be fixed with the right tools.
A majority of modern vehicles have a backup system in place 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 push-to start vehicle, this will also unlock the doors. The owner's guide 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 press buttons or turning off include the button that isn't being pressed all the way or is a battery with a low capacity or a remote which requires programming. In some instances it is possible that a simple clean could suffice to make your key fob work again. Since key fob buttons are pressed repeatedly, dirt can accumulate and prevent them from being fully pressed.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch could be to make use of the end of a paper clip. It is safe to open the case and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery and any other tools you might need to open the key fob's case in your possession. This way, you'll be ready for a problem with your key fob so that it won't disrupt your day or cause you to have to call for roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare car key in your pocket to avoid getting surprised when you encounter a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
When they are pressed by the buttons on remote controls send signals to the circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, the signals might not be sent and your device will stop working. This can happen over time, or could be due to some other issue with the fob or car. If the button is worn out, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs typically see lots of abuse. They're dropped, banged around, and exposed to cold and hot every day. They're also very delicate and easily damaged. The inside of the fob has components like a circuit board and battery contacts, which can be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.
The battery in your key fob will usually be enough to fix most problems however, certain issues are more complex than those. You can test the battery using a screwdriver to remove the case of your key fob and see if it needs to be replaced or cleaned. Most key fobs use 3V button cells, which are readily available in any retailer.
Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's a small amount of water. This could be a problem when you swim with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This could cause damage to the chip, preventing the key fob from functioning.
Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if there is a problem with a button. They will usually be able to fix or replace the 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.
It is essential to keep up-to-date with the most recent technology and equipment for your car. Cars can be expensive. If you don't, the vehicle won't function as it should and will be more difficult to get there you need to be. Incorrect technology and equipment could also be a safety issue, as it can lead to serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've tried to start your car but the fob isn't functioning this could be an indication that the battery terminals are damaged. The fob needs to be capable of communicating with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock it and start it. This is accomplished via a tiny radio transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent through the fob to the internal key (if it exists) which opens the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is able to send the signal up to 50 feet away, however should the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission might not work.
Fortunately, they are easy solutions. Replacing the battery is generally straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out what type of replacement batteries are required, and going to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct one. Some key fobs are hard to open in order to access the batteries however, it's important to be cautious so that you don't break anything inside.
Then, test the key fob again. If the key fob doesn't work, the metal key inside the fob may be damaged or the key might have been modified. Modern keys need to be programmed in order to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. This can be fixed by a professional who can re-program the key to the car.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly in the event that it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board may have failed due to the fact that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or other issues. Sometimes, this can be the result of work that was done to your car that accidentally exposed wires. This could then lead to other malfunctions such as a broken horn or a malfunctioning fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace it or repair it if required. Not having a working key could be stressful and even dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs can be extremely convenient, but they can also cause problems that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the issues that can plague keys for cars are relatively simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are some of most frequent problems, and solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or car key fob repair four years, and they can easily stop working when they're old. Fortunately it is a simple problem to solve - simply purchase a new replacement battery and then install it.
A damaged receiver
To open and start your car, the transmitter in your keyfob must receive a signal from the receiver inside your car. If the receiver is damaged, signals won't get through and will remain unreadable. This is a simple issue to determine however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is too damaged.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car through a code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In most cases, you must visit the dealership to get an alternative fob that has been programmed correctly for your car. You can find replacement fobs that are compatible with a wide range of vehicles.
Not working
If you've tried replacing the battery and buttons but your car key fob still does not work it could be an electrical issue or some other type of issue that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith can quickly fix this problem by checking for the issue. This service is usually cheaper than going to a dealer. The cost of replacing a fob will vary depending on the model of your vehicle and your local locksmith. Contact a few locksmiths in your area to find out the price before committing to the job.