Car Key Fob Repair Service
While the car key fob might seem a bit of an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could be in a bind. It's expensive to replace it, but often it's the best option.
But before you go to the dealer to have one re-evaluated, there are several other places you can go that can save you money.
Dead Battery
One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is a dead battery. It can be a shock particularly if it occurs right before you leave for work or a social event. Although you may have a backup plan in place like a spare key or a phone number for roadside assistance, you will likely need to get the fob fixed or replaced. It's good to know that the majority of car keyfob battery problems can be easily fixed with the right information.
A lot of modern cars have backup systems to deal with the possibility that the fob's battery might fail. Usually, if you hold the dead fob up to the ignition button you'll be able to start the car. If you have a vehicle that uses push-to-start it will also open your doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will give you specific instructions on how to use the key fob.
Other causes of keys that don't respond or turn on to button presses could be buttons that aren't being depressed completely, a battery with low capacity, or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some cases cleaning your key fob could be enough to make it work again. As key fob buttons get pressed repeatedly, dirt can accumulate and prevent them from being pressed all the way.
An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to use the end of the paper clip. You can use this to safely 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 in your possession. You can prepare for any issues with your keyfob well in advance, so you do not have to worry about it affecting your life or needing to call roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure that you aren't surprised by a problem with your key fob.
Button Issues
When pressed by the buttons on remote controls send signals to its circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals might not be sent. The device may cease to function. This can happen over time or could be due to an issue with your car or fob. If the button has worn out or damaged, a professional can replace or repair it.
Key fobs often get lots of abuse. Every day, they are dropped, banged, and exposed both to cold and hot. They're also quite fragile and easily damaged. The inside of the key fob is filled with components like a circuitboard and battery contacts which can be destroyed if you use it enough.
Change the battery inside your key fob will usually be enough to fix most problems however certain issues are more complex than that. You can test the battery using a screwdriver to remove the case of your key fob and see whether it is required to be replaced or cleaned. Most key fobs are powered by 3V button cells, which can be found in nearly any retailer.
Even a small amount can damage the fob. This could be a problem in the event that you swim with the key fob in your purse or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This could damage the chip and stop the key fob from functioning.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option if you're having an issue with the button. They can fix or replace your button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical issues, such as the horn that is broken or lights that aren't turning on.
Automobiles are costly, so it's important to keep up to date with technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't, the vehicle won't function as it should and it will be more difficult to get there you're supposed to be. Faulty technology and equipment can also be a safety issue in that it could result in serious mechanical problems in the future.
Broken Battery Terminals
If your fob doesn't work when you attempt to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals are damaged. To unlock and start the car, the fob has to be able to communicate with central system of your vehicle. This communication is done via a tiny radio transmitter that is inside the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one) and it unlocks the doors and starts the engine. The fob can send the signal up to 50 feet away, but when the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission may not function.
Fortunately, they are easy solutions. The process of replacing the battery is usually as easy as removing the old battery, finding out which replacement batteries are needed and then going to an auto parts store or online retailer for the proper ones. It may be difficult to open some key fobs to access the batteries. Be careful not to break any item.
The next step is to try the key fob again. If it's still not working, it is possible that the key made of metal inside the fob is damaged or the key has been programmed. Modern keys must be programmed in order to work with a specific vehicle, and certain error codes may corrupt the programming in the key fob. A professional can reprogramme the key for the vehicle.
A damaged fob is a second possibility, especially if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or had other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. Sometimes, this is because of work that was done to your vehicle, which exposed wires. This could lead to further malfunctions such as a broken horn or a malfunctioning fob. Make sure you check your key fob, and replace or repair it if required. In the absence of a functioning key can be stressful and dangerous.
Other Problems
Car key fobs can be an excellent convenience, however they can also cause issues that require professional assistance. Luckily, many of the problems that could be afflict keys for cars are relatively easy and cheap to repair. Here are some of the most frequent problems and solutions for them:
A dead battery
Most basic remotes can last for a long period before needing an upgrade in battery, however the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries need to be replaced every three or four years and may cease functioning if they get too old. This is a simple problem to fix - just buy the replacement battery and install.
Damaged receiver
The transmitter in your key fob must receive signals from the receiver in your vehicle to allow it to be opened and started. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not pass through and remain inaccessible. This is a simple problem to identify, but it may be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's damaged to the point of being unusable.
Not programmed
Certain cars of the present require a specific chip in the key fob to start. This chip communicates to the car using a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, you must visit the dealership to get an alternative fob that has been programmed correctly for your car. There are aftermarket fobs that work with a wide range of vehicles.
Not working
If you have tried replacing the battery and buttons, but your car key fob isn't working it could be an electrical issue or some other type of issue that requires professional fix. car key fob repair near me will be able to check for this kind of problem and fix your key fob back in working order quickly. This service is usually cheaper than going to a dealer. The cost of a replacement fob will differ based on the model of your vehicle and your local locksmith. You can contact a few companies in your area to get an idea of the price before committing to a job.