Car Key Fob Repair Service
If the car key fob isn't working you may be in a bind. While replacing it with a brand new one is costly, sometimes it is the most cost-effective option.
However, before you go to the dealer to get one re-evaluated there are a variety of places that can save you money.
Dead Battery
One of the most common issues with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can make people feel a bit uneasy and is most likely to happen while you're leaving for work or heading to a social event. Although you may have a backup plan in place for emergencies, like an extra key or phone number to call roadside assistance it is likely that you will need to get the fob fixed or replaced. The good news is that most car key fob battery problems can be fixed with the right tools.
A majority of modern vehicles come with a backup system that can handle the possibility of fob batteries going out of service. If you connect a dead fob in the ignition, you can generally start the car. If you own a vehicle that uses push-to-start it will also open your doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will include detailed information about where to put the fob that will start it.
Other reasons for the key fob to not respond to button presses or turning off include a button which isn't completely pressed, a low-capacity battery or a remote that needs to be programmed. In some cases, cleaning your key fob may be enough to get it functioning again. When key fob buttons are repeatedly pressed, dirt may accumulate and prevent them from being pressed all the way.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch can be to use the tip of a paper clip. You can use this to open the case safely and remove the battery. Keep an extra battery as well as any tools you'll require to open the case of your key fob in your possession. This way, you can be prepared for any issue with your key fob to ensure that it won't disrupt your day and cause you to to call for roadside assistance. Keep an extra car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get surprised when you encounter problems with your key fob.
Button Issues
The buttons on a key fob transmit signals to the circuit board of the remote when they are hit. If the buttons become worn out, signals may not be sent. Your fob may cease to function. This can occur over time, or could be the result of some other issue with the fob or car. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's worn.
Key fobs are often subject to quite a bit of abuse. Everyday, they're damaged, thrown around, and exposed both to cold and hot. They're also extremely fragile and can easily be 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.
Most problems can be resolved by replacing the battery on your fob, however there are certain issues that require more. The battery can be checked by opening the case of the key fob with a screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or requires replacing. Most key fobs use 3V button cells, which are available in almost every store.
Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only the smallest amount of water. This could be a problem if you go swimming with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This can damage the chip and stop the key fob from functioning.
If you're dealing with an issue with your button the best solution is to contact a professional locksmith. They can usually fix or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical problems, like a broken light or a sound horn that isn't working.
Cars are expensive, therefore it is essential to keep up to date with technology and equipment that make them run. If car key repair don't the vehicle won't work properly and you will have a much more difficult in getting to where want to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also pose a risk to safety and can cause serious mechanical issues in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If you have been trying to start your car but the fob isn't working, this may be an indication that the battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start the car, the fob has to be able communicate with the central system of your vehicle. The communication happens via a tiny radio transmitter within the key fob. The transmission signals are sent to the internal car key (if there is one) and it opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to transmit this signal at distances of up to 50 feet, but the transmission may not function if the battery terminals are damaged.
These are easy fixes. Replacing the battery is typically as easy as removing the old battery, finding out which type of replacement batteries are required and then heading to an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the right ones. 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 damage any of the components inside.
The next step is to test the key fob once more. If the key fob does not work the key made of metal inside the fob could be damaged or the key could be changed in programming. Modern keys must be programmed in order to function with a particular vehicle, and certain error codes can cause a problem with the programming on the key fob. This can be corrected by a professional who can program the key again to the vehicle.
Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board might have failed due to the fact that the key fob was exposed to extreme heat or other issues. Sometimes this is the result of work that was done to your car that accidentally exposed wires. This could cause other issues, such as a damaged horn or a malfunctioning key fob. It is crucial to check your key fob for damages and replace or repair it if needed, as not having a functioning key can be very stressful and dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs are a wonderful convenience to have however, they can cause issues that require professional repair. Many of the problems that can cause problems with a car keyfob can be simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are a few of the most common problems and their possible solutions:
A dead battery
The majority of basic remotes last for a long period before requiring an upgrade in battery, however the life span of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries must be replaced every three or four years, and they can cease functioning if they get too old. Fortunately it is a simple solution - just purchase a new replacement battery and then install it.
Damaged receiver
The transmitter inside your key fob has to receive a signal from the receiver in your vehicle to allow it to open and start it. If this receiver is damaged, the signals won't be able to pass through, and remain inaccessible. This is a straightforward issue to diagnose however, it could be necessary to replace the entire receiver if damaged.
Not programmed
Certain cars of the present require an extra chip inside the key fob to allow for start. This chip communicates with the car via a unique code that only the manufacturer can understand. In the majority of cases, you need to go to the dealer to purchase the replacement fob correct for your car. But, you can find aftermarket fobs online that are compatible with most vehicles.
Not working
If your car key fob does not work after you have replaced the battery and buttons it could be due to an electrical issue or another issue that requires professional assistance to fix. A professional locksmith will be able to fix this problem by checking for the issue. This service is usually cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a new fob is contingent on your car model and the locksmith you choose to use locally. Check with a few companies in your area to get an idea of the cost before booking a job.