Car Key Fob Repair Service
While a car key fob may appear to be an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could end up in a tricky spot. It's costly to replace it, but in some cases it's the best solution.
But before you head to the dealer to get one re-evaluated, there are several other places to save money.
Dead Battery
One of the most common issues with key fobs is the battery being dead. This can be a surprise, especially if it happens when you're leaving for work or attending a social gathering. There may be a backup plan, such as an additional key or a number for roadside help but you'll still need to fix or replace the fob. The good news is that most car key fob battery problems are easily fixable with the right information.
A lot of modern cars come with a backup system that allows for the possibility of the fob battery failing. Usually, if you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button you will be able to start the car. 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 to use the key fob.
Other causes for a key fob that won't be able to turn on or respond to button press events include a button that isn't depressed completely, a battery with low capacity or a remote control that needs to be reprogrammed. In some instances cleaning your key fob might be enough to make it work again. When key fob buttons are pressed repeatedly, dirt can accumulate and prevent them from being fully pressed.
A quick way to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to use the tip of a paper clip. You can use this to safely open the case and take out the old battery. Keep an additional battery and any other tools you might require to open the key fob's case in your possession. You can plan for any problems with your keyfob in advance, so that you don't have to worry about it ruining your day or needing to call roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you don't get surprised by a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob transmit signals to the remote's circuit board when they're press. If the buttons wear out, signals might not be sent. The device may stop working. This could happen over time or be caused by another issue with the car or fob. A professional will be able to repair or replace the button if it's damaged.
Key fobs often get a lot of abuse. Every day, they're broken, dropped, and exposed both to cold and heat. They're also very fragile and can easily be broken. The inside of the key fob has components like a circuitboard and battery contacts, which could be damaged if you abuse it enough.
Most problems can be resolved by replacing the battery on your fob, but there are some that require more. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob with an screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or requires replacing. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button cell batteries that can be bought in almost any retailer.
Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only the smallest amount of water. This could be a problem when you accidentally wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This can cause damage to the transponder chip inside and cause the key fob to stop functioning.
Contacting a professional locksmith is your best bet if you have an issue with a button. They can repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical problems, like lighting problems or a horn that aren't turning on.
Cars are expensive, so it is essential to keep up to date with technology and equipment that help them run. When you don't, your vehicle won't function as it should and will be harder to get to where you're required to be. It's also a major security risk to have defective technology and equipment because it could cause more serious mechanical problems down the road.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob doesn't work when you try to start your vehicle, it could be 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 via a small radio transmitter within the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) which then opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is able to transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away. However, should the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission may not function.
These are simple fixes. It is usually easy to replace 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 batteries. It can be difficult to open key fobs in order to access the batteries. Be cautious not to break anything.
The next step is to test the key fob a second time. If the key fob still isn't working, the metal key inside the fob might be damaged or the key might be modified. Modern keys have to be programmed to work with certain automobiles, and certain errors in the codes can affect the programming of the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key to the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob is damaged, particularly if it was dropped or left 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 can be the result of work that was done to your vehicle, which left exposed wires, which could lead to further malfunctions such as a broken horn or malfunctioning key fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if necessary. In auto key repair of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are a great convenience to have but they cause issues that require professional repair. Thankfully, many of the problems that could be afflict a car key fob are fairly simple and cost-effective to repair. Here are some of most frequent problems and their potential solutions.
A dead battery
The majority of basic remotes last a long time before needing a new battery, but the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. repair broken car key need to be replaced every three or four years, and are prone to fail when they're too old. Fortunately, this is an easy solution - just buy a new replacement battery and put it in.
Damaged receiver
To start and open your car, the transmitter in your keyfob must receive a signal from the receiver in your car. If this receiver is damaged, the signals won't be able to pass through and will remain inaccessible. This is a simple problem to determine, however if the receiver appears damaged, it could be necessary for you to replace it.
Not programmed
Certain cars of the present require a chip that is included in the key fob to allow it to start. This chip communicates to the car using an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, you have to visit the dealership to get an alternative fob that has been properly programmed for your vehicle. However, you may find fobs from the aftermarket that are compatible with most vehicles.
Not working
If you have tried replacing the batteries and buttons but your car key fob still doesn't work, it could be an electrical issue or some other issue that requires professional fix. A professional locksmith can check for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back in working order quickly. This will typically be less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of replacing a fob will differ based on the model of your vehicle and the locksmith you use locally. You can get a good idea of the price by speaking with a few local companies before booking a job.