Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could seem a bit of an afterthought, if it stops functioning properly, you could be in a tricky spot. While replacing it with a brand new one can be costly but sometimes it's the best option.
You can save money by visiting other places before you go to the dealer.
Dead Battery
A dead battery on a key fob is among the most common issues with key fobs. This can be a surprise, especially if it happens right before you leave for work or a social gathering. Although you may have an emergency plan 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 the majority of battery issues for car keys can be fixed easily with the right tools.
Many modern cars come with a backup system to cover the possibility that a fob's batteries might fail. Usually when you hold the dead fob to the ignition button and press it, you'll be able start the car. If you own a vehicle with push-to-start technology, this will also unlock your doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will give you detailed instructions on how you can use the key fob.
Other causes of a key fob that doesn't turn on or respond to button presses could be a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery that has low capacity, or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some instances cleaning the device may be all that is needed to make your key fob work again. As key fob buttons get repeatedly pressed, dirt could build up and stop them from being fully pressed.
A quick method to clean your key fob in a pinch can be to use the tip of the paper clip. You can use this to open the case safely and remove your old battery. It is also advisable to keep an additional battery on hand along with any tool you might need to open up the case for your key fob. This way, you'll be ready for an issue with your key fob so that it doesn't interrupt your day and cause you to the need to call roadside assistance. You can also keep an extra car key in your pocket to avoid getting taken by surprise if you have problems with your key fob.
Button Issues
When pressed, the buttons on a remote control transmit signals to its circuit board. If these buttons become worn out, the signals may not be sent and your device will stop working. This could happen over time, or it could be a result of another issue with the fob or car. If the button has worn out or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs typically see a lot of abuse. Every day, they're damaged, thrown around, and exposed both to cold and heat. car key repair cost and can easily be damaged. The inside of the key fob contains components like a circuitboard and battery contacts that can be damaged if you abuse it enough.
Change the battery inside your key fob is typically enough to fix most problems however, certain issues are more complex than those. The battery can be tested by opening the case of the key fob with a screwdriver and determining whether it's dirty or requires replacing. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button cell 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 could be a problem when you wash the key fob or go swimming with it in your pocket. This can damage the chip, preventing the key fob from working.
A professional locksmith is the best option if you're having issues with buttons. They will be able to fix or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical problems like the broken light or horn that won't work.
It is essential to keep up-to-date with the latest technologies and equipment for your car. Cars can be costly. If you don't the vehicle won't work effectively and you'll be having a harder time getting to where you want to go. Incorrect technology and equipment could also pose a risk to safety and can result in serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you've tried to start your car but the fob isn't working this could be a sign that the battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start the car, the fob must be able to communicate with the central system of your vehicle. The communication happens via a small radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to an internal key (if it exists) which opens the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is designed to send this signal at distances of up 50 feet, however the transmission may not work when the battery terminals have been damaged.
These are easy solutions. Replacing the battery is generally straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out which replacement batteries are needed, and visiting an auto parts store or online retailer for the correct batteries. Certain key fobs are difficult to open in order to access the batteries, however, it's important to be careful so that you don't damage anything inside.
The next step is to try the key fob once more. If it's still not working it could be because the metal key itself inside the fob has been damaged or that the key has been programmed. Modern keys must be programmed to work with a specific vehicle, and certain error codes may cause a problem with the programming on the key fob. This can be fixed by a professional who can reprogram the key to the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob is damaged, particularly in the event that it 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 led to the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this can be the result of work being done on your vehicle, which exposed wires. This could then lead to other problems, like a malfunctioning horn or a malfunctioning key fob. It is essential to examine your key fob for damages and repair or replace it if needed, as not having a functioning key could be extremely stressful and potentially dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have however, they can also cause issues that require professional repair. Luckily, many of the issues that can affect keys for cars are relatively simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are a few of the most frequent problems and their potential solutions.
A dead battery
Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. Fob batteries usually need to be replaced every three or four years, and can easily stop working when they are too old. Luckily, this is an easy solution - just purchase a new replacement battery and put it in.
Damaged receiver
The transmitter inside your key fob needs to receive signals from the vehicle's receiver in order to be able to open and begin. If this receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through and will remain unreadable. This is an easy issue to determine, but it may be necessary to replace the entire receiver if it is damaged.
Not programmed
Some modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob to allow it to start. The chip communicates with your car using a unique code that only the manufacturer can understand. In the majority of cases, you have to visit the dealership to obtain an alternative fob that has been programmed correctly for your car. You can find replacement fobs that work with a variety of vehicles.
Not working
If you've tried to replace the batteries and buttons but your car key fob doesn't work it could be due to an electrical issue or some other type of issue that requires professional fix. A professional locksmith can quickly solve the issue by looking for the problem. This is usually less expensive than going to the dealer. The cost of a new fob will depend on the model of your car and the locksmith you choose to use locally. Contact a few locksmiths in your area to find out the cost prior to booking the job.