Car Key Fob Repair Service

If your car's key fob isn't working, you could be in a tough spot. While replacing it with a new key fob can be expensive, sometimes it is the best alternative.

However, before you go to the dealer to get one re-evaluated There are other places you can go that can save you money.

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent problems with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can make people feel a bit uneasy and can be a real shock, particularly when you leave for work or heading out to a social gathering. Even if you have an alternative plan in place like a spare key or a phone number for assistance on the road it is likely that you will require getting the fob repaired or replaced. The positive side is that the majority of car key fob battery problems can be easily fixed with the right tools.

A majority of modern vehicles have a backup system in place that can handle the possibility of the fob battery failing. If you hold a dead fob to the ignition, you are able to usually start the vehicle. If you own a push-to-start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's manual for your car will provide specific information on where to put the fob of the key to start it.

Other reasons why keys not responding to press buttons or turning on could be buttons that aren't completely pressed or a battery that isn't fully charged or a remote that requires programming. In some cases cleaning your key fob could be enough to get it working again. Since key fob buttons are typically repeatedly pressed, dirt can accumulate and stop them from pressing to the fullest extent.

You can make use of the end of a clip clean your key fob. You can use this to safely open the case and take out the old battery. You should also consider keeping an extra battery handy along with any tool you'll need to open up the case of your key fob. This way, you can be prepared for an issue with your key fob to ensure that it won't disrupt your day and result in having need to call for roadside assistance. You can also keep a spare car key in your pocket to ensure that you don't get surprised in the event of problems with your key fob.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob send signals to the circuit board on the remote when they are hit. If the buttons wear out, the signals may not be transmitted and your fob will stop working. This could happen over time or may be due to another issue with the car or fob. A professional can repair or replace the button if it's damaged.

Key fobs are usually subjected to a lot of abuse. They're dropped, banged around, and exposed to cold and hot every day. They're also quite fragile and are easily broken. The inside of the fob is filled with parts like a circuit board and battery contacts, which can be destroyed if abused enough.

Changing the battery in your key fob will usually be enough to solve most issues however, certain issues are more complex than that. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver in order to open the fob case and Key Fob Repair Service determine if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought in nearly any store.

Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just one drop of water. This can be a problem when you wash the key fob or swim with it in your pocket. This could cause damage to the chip and stop the key fob from working.

A professional locksmith is your best option if there is a problem with a button. They will usually be able to repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also work on other electrical problems, like lighting problems or Key Fob Repair Service a horn that won't work.

Cars are expensive, therefore it's essential to stay up to date with technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't, your vehicle won't function properly and you will have a much more difficult getting to where you want to go. Faulty technology and equipment can also pose a risk to safety and can result in serious mechanical problems in the future.

Broken Battery Terminals

If you have been trying to start your car but the fob hasn't been working this could be a sign that your battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start the car, the fob must be able communicate with the central system of your vehicle. The communication happens via a small radio transmitter within the key fob. The transmission signals are sent through the fob to the internal key (if it exists) that opens the doors and starts the engine. The fob is designed to be able to send this signal up to 50 feet, but the transmission might not function in the event that the battery terminals have been damaged.

Fortunately, they are easy solutions. Replacing the battery is generally as easy as removing the old battery, finding out what type of replacement batteries are needed and then visiting an auto parts store or online retailer for the proper one. Some key fobs are hard to open to access the batteries however, and it is important to be cautious so that you do not break anything inside.

Then, test the key fob once more. If it still doesn't work it could be that the key's metal part inside the fob has been damaged or the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys must be programmed to work with specific vehicles, and certain error codes can affect the programming of the key fob. This can be fixed by a professional who can program the key again to the car.

A damaged fob is a different possibility, particularly if the fob was dropped or left in the rain. It is also possible that the key fob was subjected to excessive heat or had other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. This could happen if you work on your car and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other issues, such as a damaged key fob repair service fob or broken horn. Examine your key fob and replace or repair it if needed. The absence of a functioning key could be stressful and even dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs can be an excellent convenience, however they can also cause issues that require professional repair. Luckily, many of the issues that can plague a car key fob are relatively simple and inexpensive to fix. Here are a few of the most common problems and solutions for them:

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life span than the majority of basic remotes. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or four years, and they can easily stop working when they're old. Luckily this is a simple issue to fix - just purchase a replacement battery and install it.

A damaged receiver

The transmitter inside your key fob must receive signals from the receiver in your vehicle to be able to open and begin. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not get through and will remain inaccessible. This is a straightforward issue to diagnose however if the receiver appears too damaged, it may be necessary for you to replace it.

Not programmed

Some modern cars require a specific chip in the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with the car using a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In most cases, you must visit the dealership to get a replacement fob that is properly programmed for your vehicle. However, you can sometimes locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that are compatible with most automobiles.

Not working

If you've tried to replace the batteries and buttons but your car key fob doesn't work it could be an electrical issue or other type of issue that requires professional repair. A locksmith professional will be able to look for this kind of issue and get your key fob back in good working order in a short time. This service is usually cheaper than a trip the dealership. The cost of a replacement fob can vary based on the model of your car and the locksmith you have chosen to use. You can contact a few companies in your area to know the cost prior to booking an appointment.