Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob may appear to be an afterthought, if it stops working properly you could find yourself in a tricky spot. While replacing it with a brand new key fob can be expensive but sometimes it's the most effective alternative.

But before you head to the dealer to get one reprogramed, there are several other places you can go that will save you money.

Dead Battery

A dead battery for a fob is one of the most common issues with key fobs. It can make people feel a bit uneasy, especially when it happens when you leave for work or heading out to a party. You might have a backup plan, remote like an extra key or number for help at the roadside, but you will still have to repair or replace the fob. It's a good idea to know that the majority of car keys repair keyfob battery problems are easily fixable with the right information.

A majority of modern vehicles have a backup system that can handle the possibility of a fob battery going bad. If you hold an uncharged fob to the ignition, you will typically start the car. If you own a car with push-to-start technology and you want to unlock your doors. The owner's manual for your car will contain detailed information about where to place the fob that will start it.

Other reasons for keys that don't turn on or respond to the button presses include the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery with low capacity, or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some cases it is possible that a simple clean could suffice to get your key fob functioning again. When key fob buttons are pressed repeatedly, dirt can build up and block them from being pressed all the way.

You can use the end of a clip to swiftly clean your key fob. It is safe to open the case and take out the old battery. Keep an extra battery and any other tools you might require to open the key fob's case in your possession. You can prepare for any issues with your keyfob in advance, so that you do not have to worry about it ruining your day or calling roadside assistance. Alternately, you can keep a spare key in your purse so that you don't get shocked by a key fob issue.

Button Issues

When pressed by the buttons on remote controls send signals to the circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals might not be sent. The fob could stop working. This can happen over time, or could be the result of some other issue related to the fob or vehicle. If the button is worn, a professional can replace or repair it.

Key fobs are often subject to quite a bit of abuse. They're dropped, banged around, and exposed to heat and cold on a regular basis. They're also pretty delicate and can be easily broken. The inside of the fob has components like circuit boards and battery contacts that can be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.

The battery in your key fob will usually be enough to solve most issues however some issues are more complicated than those. The battery can be inspected by opening the case of the key fob with an screwdriver and determining if it is dirty or needs to replaced. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought at almost any store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only one drop of water. This can be a problem in the event that you swim with the key fob in your pocket, or accidentally run it through the washing machine. This could damage the transponder chip within and cause the key fob to stop functioning.

If you're experiencing a problem with a button, your best option is to speak with an expert locksmith. They are usually able to repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also fix other electrical problems, like the broken light or Horn that isn't working.

Cars are expensive, so it's important to keep up to date with technology and equipment that makes them run. If you don't do this the vehicle won't work properly and you will be having a harder getting to where you would like to go. A malfunctioning technology or equipment can also be a safety issue in that it could lead to serious mechanical problems in the future.

broken car key repair near me Battery Terminals

If your fob isn't working when you attempt to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals have failed. To unlock and start the car, the fob must be able communicate with the central system of your vehicle. This communication is carried out by a small transmitter located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent by the fob to an internal key (if it is present) that opens the doors and turns on the engine. The fob is able to send the signal up to 50 feet away, however should the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission may not work.

These are straightforward solutions. Replacing the battery is typically straightforward as taking out the old battery, finding out which type of replacement batteries are required and then visiting an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the proper ones. Some key fobs are difficult to open to access the batteries however, and Key fob repair it is important to be careful so that you don't damage any of the components inside.

Then, test the key fob a second time. If it still doesn't work it could be that the metal key itself inside the fob is damaged or the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys must be programmed to function with a particular vehicle and certain error codes can corrupt the programming in the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who will reprogram the key to the car.

A damaged fob is a second possibility, particularly if fob was placed in a container or left out in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was subjected to excessive heat or had other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. This could happen when you have work done to your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could lead to other malfunctions like a broken key fob or a broken horn. Check your key fob and replace it or repair it if required. Not having a working key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs can be a great convenience, but they may also cause problems that require professional repair. Many of the issues that may affect a car keyfob are easy and inexpensive to repair. Here are some of most frequent problems, and solutions.

A dead battery

Most basic remotes can last a long time before requiring an upgrade in battery, however the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries must be replaced every three or four years and may cease working if they are too old. This is a simple problem to fix - just buy an alternative battery and then install it.

Damaged receiver

The transmitter inside your key fob must receive a signal from the receiver in your vehicle to allow it to be able to open and begin. If this receiver is damaged, the signals will not be able to pass through and will remain unreadable. This is a simple issue to diagnose, but it may be necessary to replace the whole receiver if it's damaged to the point of being unusable.

Not programmed

Some modern cars require a chip that is included in the key fob to allow it to start. The chip communicates to the car using an exclusive code that is only known by the manufacturer. In most instances, a replacement key fob must be programmed by the dealer. However, you can sometimes find aftermarket fobs online that are compatible with most automobiles.

Not working

If you've tried to replace the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still isn't working, it could be an electrical issue or some other issue that requires professional attention. A locksmith professional can check for this type of issue and get your key fob back in working order quickly. This is usually less expensive than going to a dealer. The cost of a new fob is contingent on your car model and the locksmith in your area. You can get a rough estimate of the cost by contacting a few local companies before booking a job.