Car Key Fob Repair Service

If the car key fob stops working it could put you in a bind. While replacing it with a new key fob can be expensive and time-consuming, it's sometimes the most cost-effective option.

However, before you go to the dealer to have one reprogramed there are a variety of places that will save you money.

Dead Battery

One of the most frequent issues with key fobs is the battery being dead. It can be a surprise to people, especially when it happens as you are leaving for Key Fob Repair Service work or heading out to a party. You may have a back-up plan, such as an extra key or number for roadside help, but you will still need to fix or replace the fob. It's important to know that the majority of car keyfob battery issues can be easily fixed with the right knowledge.

A majority of modern vehicles come with a backup system that allows for the possibility of fob batteries going out of service. If you hold a dead fob to the ignition, you can typically start the car. If you have a push-to start vehicle, it will unlock the doors. The owner's manual of your car will provide specific information on where to place the fob that will start it.

Other causes of keys that don't be able to turn on or respond to the button presses include the button isn't being pressed completely, a battery that has low capacity or a remote control that requires reprogramming. In some instances, cleaning your key fob may be enough to make it work again. As key fob buttons get pressed repeatedly, dirt can build up and stop them from being pressed all the way.

An easy way to clean your key fob in a pinch would be to use the tip of the paper clip. You can use this to safely open the case and remove your old battery. Keep an extra battery and any tools you'll need to remove the key fob's case in your possession. This way, you can be ready for any issue with your key fob so that it doesn't disrupt your routine and result in having the need to call roadside assistance. Alternately, Key Fob Repair Service you can keep a spare key in your purse so that you aren't surprised by a malfunctioning key fob.

Button Issues

When pressed, the buttons on the remote control send signals to its circuit board. If the buttons become worn out, signals may not be sent. The device may stop working. This can happen over time or be caused by an issue with your car or fob. If the button has worn out it is possible to replace it or repair it.

Key fobs are frequently subjected to a lot of abuse. Every day, they are dropped, banged and exposed to heat and cold. They're also very fragile and could easily be broken. The inside of the fob contains parts like a circuit board and battery contacts, which can be destroyed if abused enough.

Most issues can be solved by replacing the battery on your fob, but there are some that require a greater. You can test the battery by using a screwdriver to open the case of the fob and determine whether it's required to be cleaned or replaced. The most common batteries used in key fobs are 3V button batteries that can be bought in almost any retailer.

Fobs can also be damaged by water even if it's just a small amount of water. This can be a problem if you go swimming with the key fob in your pocket or accidentally put it through the washing machine. This could damage the chip and prevent the key fob from working.

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

Cars are expensive, therefore it's important to keep up with the technology and equipment that help them run. If you don't do this the vehicle won't work properly and you will be having a harder time getting to where you would like to go. It's also a big safety issue to have faulty technology and equipment because it could cause more serious mechanical issues down the road.

Broken Battery Terminals

If your fob hasn't worked when you attempt to start your vehicle it could be because the battery terminals are damaged. The fob has to be capable of communicating with the vehicle's central system in order to unlock and start it. This communication is made by a small transmitter located inside the key fob. The transmission signals are sent through the fob to the internal key (if it exists) which opens the doors and then turns on the engine. The fob can transmit the signal up to 50 feet away, but if the battery's terminals are damaged, the transmission might not work.

Luckily, these are easy fixes. Replacing the battery is generally as easy as removing the old battery, figuring out which replacement batteries are required, and visiting an auto parts store or online retailer to purchase the correct ones. Some key fobs are difficult to open in order to access the batteries however, and it pays to be cautious to ensure that you do not break any of the components inside.

The next step is to try the key fob again. If it's still not working it could be that the metal key itself inside the fob is damaged or that the key has been reprogrammed. Modern keys have to be programmed in order to work with a specific vehicle and certain error codes can cause a problem with the programming on the key fob. A professional can reprogram the key to the vehicle.

Another possibility is that the fob itself is damaged, especially if it was dropped or left in the rain. It could also be that the key fob was subjected to extreme heat or other issues that led to the circuit board to fail. This could happen when you are working on your vehicle and accidentally exposed wires. This could result in other malfunctions like a broken key fob or a broken horn. Check your key fob and replace or repair it if required. In the absence of a functioning key can be stressful and potentially dangerous.

Other Issues

Car key fobs are a great convenience to have but they cause issues that require professional repair. Many of the issues that may affect a car key repair shop near me keyfob are simple and affordable to fix. Here are a few of the most common problems with their potential solutions.

A dead battery

Smart Key fobs have a shorter life-span than standard remotes. Fob batteries typically need to be replaced every three or four years, and they are prone to fail when they are too old. Luckily 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 signals from the vehicle's receiver in order to open and start it. If the receiver is damaged, signals will not be able to pass through and will remain inaccessible. This is an easy issue to identify, however if the receiver appears damaged, it could be necessary to replace it.

Not programmed

Some modern cars need an extra chip inside the key fob in order to start. The chip communicates with your car through a code that only the manufacturer is aware of. In the majority of cases, a replacement fob needs to be programmed by the dealer. However, you can sometimes locate aftermarket fobs on the internet that work with a variety of vehicles.

Not working

If you've tried replacing the batteries and buttons but your car key fob still does not work it could be an electrical issue or other kind of problem that requires professional repair. A professional locksmith will be able to check for this type of issue and get your key fob back in working order quickly. This will typically be cheaper than a trip to the dealership. The cost of a replacement fob will differ based on the model of your car and the locksmith you use locally. Check with a few companies in your area to know the price before committing to an appointment.