Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob could seem a bit of an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could end up in a tricky spot. While replacing it with a brand new one is costly and time-consuming, it's sometimes the best option.
You can save money by visiting other places before you go to the dealer.
Dead Battery
One of the most common issues with key fobs is a dead battery. It can be a surprise to people, especially when it happens as you are leaving for work or heading to a party. There may be a backup plan, like an additional key or a number for roadside help but you'll still need to fix or replace the fob. It's a good idea to know that most battery issues for car keys can be fixed easily with the right knowledge.
Many modern vehicles come with an emergency backup system to protect the possibility that a fob's battery may fail. Usually when you hold the dead fob to the ignition button you will be able to start the vehicle. If you have a push-to start vehicle, it will 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 a key fob that won't turn on or respond to button press events include a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote control that needs to be reprogrammed. In some instances cleaning the device may suffice to get your key fob functioning again. Since key fob buttons are repeatedly pressed, dirt could build up and stop them from being fully pressed.
You can make use of the end of a clip to quickly clean your key fob. You can use it to open the case safely and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any tools you'll require to remove the key fob's case at hand. This way, you'll be ready for any issue with your key fob so that it won't disrupt your routine and cause you to need to call for roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare car key in your pocket to avoid getting taken by surprise when you encounter a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
When pressed by the buttons on the remote control transmit signals to its circuit board. If the buttons wear out, signals might not be sent. Your fob may cease to function. This can happen over time, or it could be due to an issue with the fob or car. If the button has worn out, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs are frequently subjected to a lot of abuse. key repair near me dropped, tossed around, and exposed to cold and hot every day. They're also quite fragile and easily damaged. The inside of the fob is filled with parts 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 resolve most issues however some issues are more complicated than that. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver in order to open the case of your key fob and see whether it's required to be cleaned or replaced. The majority of key fobs utilize 3V button cells that are readily available in every store.
Even a tiny amount of water can harm the fob. This could be a concern in the event that you swim with the key fob in your purse or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This can damage the transponder chip within and cause the key fob to stop working.
If you're experiencing a button issue, your best option is to call an expert locksmith. They can fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical issues, such as the horn that is broken or lights that won't turn on.
Cars are expensive, so it's important to keep up to date with technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't do this, your vehicle won't function effectively and you'll have a much more difficult in getting to where would like to go. It's also a big security risk to have defective equipment and technology since it could cause more serious mechanical problems down the road.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob hasn't worked when you try to start your car, it could be that the battery terminals have failed. The fob has to be able to communicate with the central system of the vehicle in order to unlock it and start it. This communication is made via a small transmitter inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to an internal key (if it is present), which unlocks the doors and then turns on the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away. However, if the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not work.
Luckily, these are easy solutions. Replacing the battery is typically as easy as removing the old battery, figuring out what type of replacement batteries are needed, and visiting an auto parts retailer or online store to find the right one. It can be difficult to open some key fobs to access the batteries. Be careful not to break anything.
The next step is to try the key fob once more. If the key fob still isn't working the key that is in the fob could be damaged or the key might have been reprogrammed. Modern keys need to be programmed in order 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 will re-program the key to the car.
A damaged fob is a different possibility, especially if the fob was dropped or left out in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was exposed to extreme heat or other issues that caused the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this is because of having work done on your car that accidentally exposed wires, which could lead to further problems, like a malfunctioning horn or a malfunctioning fob. Check your key fob and replace it or repair it if needed. In the absence of a functioning key can be stressful and dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have however, they can also cause issues that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the problems that could be afflict keys for cars are fairly simple and cost-effective to fix. Here are some of most frequent problems, and solutions.
A dead battery
The majority of basic remotes last for a long period before they require a new battery, but the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries must be replaced every three or four years and may cease functioning if they get too old. Fortunately, this is an easy solution - just purchase a replacement battery and put it in.
A damaged receiver
To open and start your vehicle the transmitter on your keyfob must receive a signal from the receiver inside your car. If this receiver is damaged, the signals won't be able to pass through, and remain inaccessible. This is a straightforward issue to identify, however if the receiver appears damaged, it could be necessary to replace it.
Not programmed
Certain modern cars require a specific chip in the key fob for it to start. The chip communicates to the car with an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, you must visit the dealership to obtain an alternative fob that has been properly programmed for your vehicle. However, you may find fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with all automobiles.
Not working
If your car key fob does not work after you have replaced the battery and buttons it could be caused by an electrical issue or another type of issue that requires professional repair. A professional locksmith can quickly solve the issue by looking for the issue. This service is typically less expensive than going to a dealer. The cost of replacing a fob will differ based on the model of your car and the locksmith you use locally. You can contact a few companies in your area to know the cost prior to booking a job.