Car Key Fob Repair Service

While a car key fob could seem like an incidental item, if it stops working properly you could be in a difficult spot. While replacing it with a brand new key fob can be expensive but sometimes it's the best option.

You can save money by visiting other locations prior to going to the dealer.

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent problems with key fobs is batteries that are dead. This can be a surprise particularly if it occurs just as you're leaving for work or attending a social event. Even if you have a backup plan in place for emergencies, like a spare key or a phone number for assistance on the road, you will likely require getting the fob fixed or replaced. It's good to know that the majority of car keyfob battery issues 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. If you hold a dead fob to the ignition, you are able to usually start the vehicle. If you have a push-to start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's guide for your vehicle will give you specific instructions on how to use the key fob.

Other reasons for a key fob that won't turn on or respond to button press events include the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery with low capacity or a remote controller that needs to be reprogrammed. 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 build up that prevents them from pressing down to the fullest extent.

You can use the end of a clip clean your key fob. You can use this to open the case safely and remove the battery. It is also advisable to keep an extra battery handy and any tool you might need to open up the case of your key fob. This way, you'll be prepared in case of an issue with your key fob to ensure that it won't disrupt your routine and result in having to call for roadside assistance. Keep a spare car key in your pocket to avoid being surprised in the event of an issue with your key fob.

Button Issues

The buttons on a key fob send signals to the circuit board on the remote key repair when they're hit. If the buttons become worn out, signals might not be sent. Your fob may stop working. This could happen over time, or it could be the result of another issue with the car or fob. A professional can fix or replace the button if it's damaged.

Key fobs are often subject to quite a bit of abuse. They're thrown around, smashed, and exposed to heat and cold on a daily basis. They're also very fragile and could easily be broken. The inside of the fob has components like a circuit board and battery contacts that could be damaged if they are subjected to enough abuse.

Most problems can be resolved by replacing the battery on your fob, but there are some that require a greater. You can test the battery using a screwdriver to remove the case of the fob and determine if it needs to be replaced or cleaned. The most popular batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries, which can be purchased in almost any retailer.

Fobs can also be damaged by water, even if it's only one drop of water. This can be a problem if you go swimming with the key fob in your purse or accidentally run it through a washing machine. This can damage the chip and stop the key fob from functioning.

Contacting a professional locksmith is your best option if you're having an issue with a button. They can repair or replace the button and reprogram it for you. They can also solve other electrical problems, like the broken light or horn that won't work.

Automobiles are costly, so it is essential to keep up to date with technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't then your vehicle will not function properly and you will encounter a more difficult getting to where you would like to go. Incorrect technology and equipment could also be a security issue, as it 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 functioning this could be an indication that the battery terminals are broken. To unlock and start your vehicle, the fob needs to be able to communicate with central system of your vehicle. This is accomplished through a small radio transmitter within the key fob. The transmission signals are transmitted to the car key's internal circuit (if there is one), which in turn unlocks the doors and begins the engine. The fob can transmit the signal as far as 50 feet away. However, should the terminals on the battery are damaged, the transmission will not work.

These are simple fixes. Replacing the battery is typically as simple as removing the old battery, finding out which replacement batteries are required, and heading to an auto key Fob Repair parts retailer or online store to find the proper ones. It can be difficult to open key fobs to get to the batteries. Be cautious not to break anything.

Then, test the key fob once more. If the key fob still does not work the key that is in the fob might be damaged or the key might be changed in programming. Modern keys must be programmed to work with certain vehicles, and a certain error code can corrupt the programming of the key fob. This can be remedied by a professional who can reprogram the key to the car.

Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, particularly when it was dropped or left in the rain. The circuit board may be damaged because the key fob was exposed to excessive heat or other issues. Sometimes this is the result of having work done on your car that accidentally exposed wires. This could cause other issues, such as a damaged horn or a malfunctioning fob. Examine your key fob and replace it or repair it if needed. Not having a working key could be stressful and even dangerous.

Other Problems

Car key fobs are a great convenience to have however, they can also cause problems that need professional repair. Thankfully, many of the issues that can affect keys for cars are relatively simple and inexpensive to solve. Here are some of the most frequent problems and solutions for them:

A dead battery

The most basic remotes can last for a long period before needing replacement batteries, however the lifespan of Smart Key fobs is generally much shorter. Fob batteries must be replaced every three to four years and may cease working if they are too old. This is a straightforward issue to fix. Just purchase an alternative battery and then install it.

Damaged receiver

The transmitter in your key fob needs to receive a signal from the vehicle's receiver to allow it to allow it to be opened and started. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through and will remain inaccessible. This is an easy issue to diagnose but if the receiver is damaged, it could be necessary to replace it.

Not programmed

Certain modern cars require a special chip in the key fob to allow for start. The chip communicates to the car using a unique code only known by the manufacturer. In the majority of cases, a replacement key fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. You can find replacement fobs that can be used with many vehicles online.

Not working

If you've tried to replace the battery and buttons, but your car key fob still doesn't work it could be an electrical issue or some other kind of problem that requires professional fix. A locksmith professional will be able to look for this type of issue and help you get your key fob back to working order quickly. This service is usually less expensive than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a new fob will depend on the model of your vehicle and the local locksmith. You can get a good idea of the price by checking with several local businesses prior to booking a job.