Car Key Fob Repair Service
If the car key fob stops working, you could be in a tough spot. It can be expensive to replace it, but sometimes it's the best solution.
You can save money by visiting other locations prior to going to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent problems with key fobs is batteries that are dead. It can be a shock particularly if it occurs just as you're leaving for work or attending a social event. Although you may have a backup plan in place like an extra key or phone number for assistance on the road, you will likely require getting the fob fixed or replaced. It's important to know that most car keyfob battery problems are easily fixable with the right knowledge.
Many modern vehicles come with backup systems to deal with the possibility that a fob's battery may fail. Usually when you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button and press it, you'll 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 causes for keys not responding to button presses or turning on include the button that isn't being fully pressed or is a battery with a low capacity, or a remote that needs to be programmed. In some cases cleaning your key fob may be enough to make it work again. Because key fob buttons are typically pressed over and over again the dirt may build up that prevents them from pressing to the fullest extent.
You can use the end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. This can safely be used to open the case and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any other tools you might require to open the case of your key fob on hand. This way, you'll be ready for any issue with your key fob, so that it doesn't interrupt your routine and result in having need to call for roadside assistance. Keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid being caught off guard when you encounter an issue with your key fob.
Button Issues
When pressed, the buttons on the remote control send signals to its circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals may not be sent. The fob could cease to function. This can occur over time or could be due to another issue with the car or fob. If the button is worn or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs are frequently subjected to a lot abuse. They're dropped, tossed around, and exposed to cold and heat on a regular basis. They're also very delicate and can be easily broken. 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 is typically enough to resolve most issues however, certain issues are more complex than those. You can test the battery using a screwdriver in order to open the fob case and determine whether it is required to be replaced or cleaned. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be purchased in almost any retailer.
Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's one drop of water. This can be a concern when you accidentally wash your key fob or go swimming with it in your pocket. This could damage the transponder chip within and cause the key fob to cease working.
A professional locksmith is the best bet if you have an issue with buttons. They can repair or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also address other electrical issues, such as an unresponsive light or a sound horn that isn't working.
It's essential to keep up with the latest technologies and tools for your vehicle. Cars can be costly. If you don't, the vehicle won't function as it should and it will be much harder to get to where you need to be. It's also a risk to be a victim of defective equipment and technology since it can lead to more serious mechanical issues down the road.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've been trying to start your car but the fob hasn't been working it could be a sign that the battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start your car, the fob has to be able to communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This is accomplished through a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the internal car key (if there is one) which then unlocks the doors and begins the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal up to 50 feet away. However, when the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission may not work.
These are straightforward solutions. It is usually easy to replace remote key repairs the battery. Simply take out the old one, figure out the kind of batteries you require, and head to an auto parts shop or online retailer to purchase the right one. Certain key fobs are difficult to open in order to get access to the batteries however, and it pays to be cautious to ensure that you do not break anything inside.
Then, test the key fob a second time. If the key fob doesn't work the key made of metal inside the fob could be damaged or the key may have been changed in programming. Modern keys are programmed to work with certain vehicles, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who will re-program the key to the car.
Another possibility is that the fob is damaged, especially when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board could have failed because the key fob was exposed to extreme heat, or other problems. This can happen when you are working on your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other issues, such as a damaged key fob or a broken horn. It is essential to examine the key fob for damage and replace or repair it if necessary, since not having a functioning key could be extremely stressful and potentially dangerous.
Other Issues
Car key fobs can be extremely convenient, but they can also cause issues that require professional repair. Luckily, many of the issues that can affect the car key fob are relatively simple and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems, and solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter lifespan than most basic remotes. Fob batteries must be replaced every three to four years, and they can cease working if they are too old. Luckily this is a simple issue to fix - just buy a new replacement battery and then install it.
Damaged receiver
To open and start your car, the transmitter in your keyfob has to receive a message from the receiver in your car. If this receiver is damaged, the signals will be unable to pass through and remain unreadable. This is a simple issue to diagnose however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is damaged.
Not programmed
Some modern cars need an extra chip inside the key fob to allow for start. The chip communicates to the car with a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of instances, a replacement key fob must be programmed by the dealer. You can find aftermarket fobs that are compatible with a variety of vehicles.
Not working
If you have tried replacing the battery and buttons, but your car key fob does not work it could be due to an electrical issue or some other issue that requires professional attention. A professional locksmith can quickly solve the issue by looking for the problem. This is usually less expensive than visiting a dealer. The cost of replacing a fob can vary based on the model of your vehicle and your local locksmith. You can get a good idea of the costs by checking with some local businesses prior to scheduling a job.